In brief
In an effort to streamline traffic at Dunedin Airport, a new sign limits curbside hugs to just three minutes, leading to a blend of outrage and humor on social media.
In a bid to keep traffic flowing smoothly, Dunedin Airport in New Zealand has implemented a whimsical new rule: hugs at curbside must last no longer than three minutes. Recently installed signs state, “max hug time 3 minutes,” alongside an illustration of two figures embracing. The airport's CEO, Daniel De Bono, describes this playful initiative as a reminder for travelers to keep their farewells brief and utilize the parking lot for longer goodbyes.While many have reacted with satire or disbelief—one user described the rule as “inhumane”—analysts note that three minutes can feel prolonged for a public display of affection. Despite this, De Bono reassured travelers that this duration is enough for a dose of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin.In the wake of Dunedin's rule, other airports emerged with their takes, including Heathrow, which recently flaunted its “max hug time, unlimited” policy—albeit with a catch. Those wishing to hug curbside must pay a fee if they're not parked in designated areas.As this quirky approach to curbside traffic garners attention, it raises amusing questions about public displays of affection and the complexities of goodbye rituals in modern society.
