Navigating a 55-Minute Layover in Bengaluru Airport Terminal 2

Facing an airport layover of just 55 minutes in Bengaluru Airports Terminal 2 can be daunting, especially if you are depending on it to connect to your next flight. Whether it is the airline's responsibility, the steps involved, and the factors that can impact your connection, we break it down for you here.

What You Need to Know About Connecting Flights

For passengers traveling on two flights that are booked within one Passenger Name Record (PNR), the responsibility to ensure connectivity falls on the airline. Airlines typically do not issue tickets for connections that have a minimum connecting time, which is usually much higher than 55 minutes. Therefore, if your layover is significantly shorter, you should not worry if your ticket was issued, as the airline is responsible for your connection.

Upon your arrival, the transfer desk will be located after you disembark the aircraft. However, if your layover involves an intra-terminal transfer, several factors can influence your ability to make the connection.

Inter-Terminal Transfers: From Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 at Bengaluru Airport

If your arrival is in Terminal 1 and your departure is in Terminal 2, it introduces several variables to navigate:

Factor 1: Direct Luggage Transfer
If both flights are with the same airline, you won't need to carry your luggage. You should already have a boarding pass for your next flight prepared by the airline.

Factor 2: Rapid vs. Slower Connections
Your disembarkation speed greatly depends on whether you arrive via an airport shuttle (often referred to as an aero bridge) or a tarmac exit. If you disembark via an aero bridge, the process can be quicker. However, if you have to exit through the tarmac and use a terminal ladder followed by a bus, you may need more time.

Factor 3: Terminal Transfer Shuttle
Transferring from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 involves a shuttle. These shuttles run every 15 minutes and take about 10 minutes to travel between the terminals. This means it will take approximately 25 minutes from the time you board the shuttle to the time you reach Terminal 2.

Could 55 Minutes be Sufficient?

With ideal conditions, a 55-minute layover could be just sufficent for you to catch your next flight. However, several real-world scenarios may reduce this time:

Flight Delays: Any delay in your incoming flight will reduce the time you have for connection. Delays can be caused by various factors including weather, mechanical issues, or the airline's own operational challenges.

Waiting for the Shuttle: Arriving at the terminal after your flight landing, boarding the shuttle, and reaching the departure terminal can add up quickly, leaving less time in the final leg of your journey.

Additional Processing and Check-In: Depending on your airline and route, you may need to check in for your next flight or go through an additional security process. This can vary from just a quick walk to potentially multiple hours.

Therefore, although it is possible to catch your connecting flight with 55 minutes, it is not advisable to assume this time is sufficient. If your connecting flight is critical for onward travel, consider contacting the airline well in advance to discuss potential concerns.

Conclusion

Navigating a 55-minute layover in Bengaluru Airport Terminal 2 requires careful planning and understanding of the potential challenges. While the airline can provide support, the final decision can depend on various factors, including delays and the efficiency of terminal transfers. Always check your flight status and contact your airline for any concerns about your connection.