Users of Coimbatore International Airport have called for the free dwell time at the terminal forecourt to be increased from three minutes to five minutes, citing difficulties in assisting elderly passengers and handling luggage within the existing limit.

Under the present system, vehicles entering the airport’s pick-up and drop-off zones are allowed a free dwell time of three minutes. Those requiring additional time must use the parking facility by paying a fee, while vehicles found violating the norms are liable to a penalty of ₹500.

S. Sameer, an airport user, said he was fined ₹500 on Monday after his vehicle exceeded the three-minute free dwell time while he was dropping off his elderly in-laws at the departure terminal. According to him, airport authorities locked the wheel of his vehicle for overstaying beyond the permitted time.

He said the distance from the airport entrance to the departure terminal is about 100 metres and that navigating through traffic, finding a place to stop, unloading luggage and assisting elderly passengers to the terminal entrance often takes more than three minutes.

“The three-minute limit is impractical, particularly for senior citizens, persons with disabilities and families travelling with luggage. The free dwell time should be extended to at least five minutes,” he said.

V. Swathi, another airport user, said the three-minute dwell time forced people to rush through the drop-off process.

“Passengers accompanying elderly persons, children or those carrying multiple pieces of luggage are compelled to hurry to avoid penalties. The authorities should extend the free dwell time to at least five minutes,” she said.

Airport officials said the three-minute free dwell time had been fixed after taking into account traffic movement during peak hours and the need to avoid congestion in front of the terminal. They said passenger convenience remained the priority.