Monkeys sneak into Bengaluru airport’s swanky terminal 2, rescued

Bengaluru airport’s swanky Terminal 2 had an unexpected pair of visitors: monkeys.

Airport sources told Moneycontrol that the primates reportedly entered Terminal 2 in search of food on Sunday and were later rescued on Wednesday. They did not harm any passengers or staff.

BIAL was unavailable to comment.

“This is the first time monkeys have entered Terminal 2,” a Bengaluru airport source said. “We believe they may have come in through the smoking areas near arrivals, which are always open. Since it is an open area, passengers frequently pass through.”

Terminal 2, also known as the ‘Garden Terminal,’ is designed with extensive use of engineered bamboo for its ceilings, columns, and walls. “This created ample hiding space for monkeys and kept staff on their toes,” the source added.

The monkeys were captured by the airport’s Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) team and released near Nandi Hills on Wednesday. “This cannot be called a menace as it is a one-off incident and not a regular occurrence,” the source said.

Bengaluru @bangalore International Airport terminal 2 is a dog's paradise. Please ensure the safety of passengers. @BLRAirport @AAI_Official pic.twitter.com/ceVP0nrhAp

— Renganathan.k (@Renganathan_RK) November 18, 2024

Airport authorities also face complaints about street dogs in the vicinity, with staff and passengers raising concerns about the stray menace.