Cochin International Airport (COK)

Common Complaints

• Strict Airport Entry Rules: A frequent and significant complaint revolves around the draconian rule of not allowing entry more than 6 hours before a flight, with no adequate seating or amenities outside, especially for international transfers. Travelers report being made to wait outside, sometimes in uncomfortable conditions.
• Rude and Obnoxious Customs/Immigration Staff: Several reviews describe customs and immigration officers as rude, obnoxious, and lacking manners, creating a negative and intimidating experience for travelers. There are reports of unnecessary secondary scanning and questioning.
• Security Wait Times and Inefficiency: While some have experienced quick security checks, others report horrible and long security queues, with a lack of clear signage and staff efficiency. Recent tightening of security measures has led to longer queues, with passengers advised to arrive at least three hours early for domestic flights. The DigiYatra facility is present but some find its single counter insufficient.
• Lounge Food Quality and Cleanliness: There have been recent complaints about the quality of food in the lounges, with one traveler reporting food poisoning from a Terminal 1 lounge in July 2024. Issues with washroom cleanliness in the lounge areas have also been noted.
• Prepaid Taxi Service Limitations: A traveler reported being denied a prepaid taxi service from the arrival area because they were not an "arrival passenger," despite having dropped off family for a departure.

While Cochin International Airport is praised for its modern, clean, and environmentally conscious design, traveler satisfaction is significantly impacted by stringent entry regulations, perceived rudeness from some customs and immigration staff, and occasional inefficiencies in security and lounge services. The upcoming implementation of biometric e-gates for immigration is a promising development that could significantly enhance the international traveler experience.