... and about time too.
I flew an international route out of BIAL for the first time earlier this month and I must say that the international departures and arrivals area in BIAL is a dashed sight better than the old HAL airport.
Checkin and post-checkin procedures are a lot smoother, the toilets are actually clean (something they haven't managed to fix in the BIAL domestic departures area yet), and there're enough comfortable chairs to sit around.
When you arrive, immigration queues are short and move fast, baggage seems to arrive much quicker and handling is a lot more professional. Getting a taxi involves no hassle, and the extra time taken to get home is compensated by the fact that you save at least half an hour because of smoother procedures.
Overall, I'd not call the experience world-class (Frankfurt, Singapore, Hong Kong all beat BIAL by a mile and then some), but it's the best I've had in India so far. I doubt there's any chance too many people would fly international routes out of or into HAL airport given a choice.
2 comments:
Finally, something nice about BIAL from you :)
I have not taken the int'l departure from the BIAL, but happened to use the domestic terminus just yesterday.. And the experience was just perfect.. The way it is handled makes me really wish that they do not reopen HAL airport ;) To top it, the bus ride from Residency Road to BIAL took exactly 60 mins, in peak evening rush hour (1800hrs)..
Piyush,
I calls 'em as I sees 'em :)
We'll continue to disagree on the domestic terminal. I'd pick HAL airport for short-haul and BIAL for international, were the choice available.
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