Bengaluru Airport Pods Divide Internet

New Delhi, November 21, 2025: A recent viral video offering an intimate look inside the sleeping pods at Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has taken social media by storm. The clip, which was filmed by a travel vlogger, showed the compact “mini capsules” available to passengers, prompting a huge online discussion that has left the internet sharply divided.

Pod Features Showcased

The short reel, which was reportedly shot inside the 080 Lounge at Terminal 1, begins with the vlogger demonstrating the automatic sliding door and walking viewers through the interior features. The pods were shown to be equipped with a variety of controls, including buttons for lighting, fan speed, seat reclination, and even a massage function. The presence of a “zero-gravity” mode was also highlighted, which is designed to enhance quick naps for transit passengers and those with long layovers. The pods are offered at an hourly rate, with two hours costing approximately ₹1,300.

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Claustrophobia vs. Convenience

The public response to the unique airport amenity has been distinctly mixed. Many viewers were quick to praise the initiative, stating that the pods are an innovative and much-needed solution for travelers seeking privacy and a quiet corner to rest. The pods were compared positively to similar facilities that are offered at major international airports across the globe.

Conversely, a large segment of the audience expressed significant discomfort. The compact, confined space was compared to objects like MRI machines, with many users claiming that the clip itself triggered feelings of breathlessness or claustrophobia. The design was dismissed by these users as an “avoidable gimmick” or a “claustrophobic nightmare.”

Practical Concerns Raised

Beyond the aesthetic debate, several practical concerns were raised by online users. Questions about the frequency of cleaning and hygiene between users, especially during peak travel seasons, were emphasized. Furthermore, the obvious issue of passengers potentially oversleeping and missing their connecting flights was discussed at length. While the lounge management maintains that strict hygiene and maintenance standards are adhered to, the practicalities of operating the pods at high occupancy are being questioned by the public.

The video has successfully brought renewed attention to the airport’s efforts to enhance the passenger experience. However, whether the capsule-style resting spaces will become a mainstream preference or will remain a niche option for a segment of travellers is yet to be seen.