Yes, Coimbatore Airport (CJB) has two indoor smoking options after security: a designated zone near Gate 2 and the Blueberry Bar and Restaurant on the 1st floor where smoking is permitted with any purchase. Outdoor areas are also available near the parking zone.
Coimbatore International Airport serves the “Manchester of South India” — a city known for its textile mills, IT parks, and engineering industries. CJB handles strong domestic traffic to metros like Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, plus a handful of international routes to Singapore and Sharjah. The compact single terminal makes navigating easy, and smokers are better served here than at many similarly sized Indian airports, with two distinct indoor options available.
Inside Terminals
Coimbatore Airport gives smokers two choices after clearing security, which is notably generous for a mid-sized Indian airport.
The quicker option is the designated smoking zone near Gate 2. Once you are through security, it is a short walk — look for the signage pointing toward the zone. This is a straightforward smoking area that does not require any purchase or special access.
The second option is more comfortable. The Blueberry Bar and Restaurant on the first floor allows smoking inside the establishment. The catch is that you need to order something — but even a soft drink or a cup of coffee qualifies. This is a sit-down spot where you can relax with a cigarette while watching the tarmac activity, making it a good choice if you have time to spare before boarding.
Outside Terminals
Outside the terminal, smoking is permitted in designated areas around the parking zone. This is the default option for anyone who has not yet entered the building or who wants to smoke before check-in. The outdoor areas are open-air and located near the terminal approach, so you will not have to walk far from the drop-off point.
Tips for Smokers at Coimbatore Airport
- For the fastest smoke break after security, head straight to the Gate 2 smoking zone. It is the closest option to the boarding area and does not require any purchase.
- If you have 20-30 minutes before boarding, the Blueberry Bar on the first floor is a much more comfortable experience. Order anything — even a ₹50 soft drink gets you access to their smoking section.
- Coimbatore’s terminal is compact enough that you can reach either smoking spot and get back to your gate within 10 minutes. Do not stress about missing announcements.
- Lighters can sometimes be confiscated at security. If yours gets taken, the shops inside the terminal sell replacements, or ask at the Blueberry Bar.
- Skip the vape entirely. India’s e-cigarette ban is strictly enforced, and Coimbatore Airport security is no exception.
India Smoking Regulations
All Indian airports operate under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) of 2003, which prohibits smoking except in designated areas. Lighting up outside these zones can result in an immediate ₹200 fine. Smoking areas at airports are required by law to be set at least 10 feet from any building entrance. India also maintains a blanket prohibition on e-cigarettes and vaping devices under the 2019 Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act — using or carrying them is illegal and can lead to confiscation, fines, or imprisonment for repeat offenders.