Airline passengers in Türkiye who unbuckle their seat belts, access overhead compartments, or occupy the aisle before their plane has fully stopped now face fines under the revised regulations issued by the country’s civil aviation authority.
The updated rules, which aim to enhance safety and ensure a more orderly disembarkation, came into effect earlier this month, according to the Turkish Directorate of Civil Aviation (SHGM).
It is not unusual in Türkiye, as in the other parts of the world, for passengers to stand up or move inside the cabin soon after the plane has landed, often leading to chaotic disembarkation.
Under the new regulations, commercial airlines operating flights in the country are required to issue a revised version of the standard in-flight announcement to remain seated, warning that violations will be documented and reported, according to a circular issued by the aviation authority.
Passengers are also reminded to wait for those in front of them to exit first instead of rushing forward.
The circular does not say how much passengers who disregard the regulations could be fined, but Turkish media reports have said fines of up to $70 will be imposed.
"Despite announcements informing passengers of the rules, many are standing up before the aircraft reaches its parking positions and before the seat belt sign is turned off,” the aviation authority noted.
"This behavior compromises the safety of passengers and baggage, disregards the satisfaction and exit priority of other travelers,” it said.
No immediate reports have confirmed that the newly introduced fines are being enforced.
Türkiye is a popular travel destination, drawing millions of tourists every year.
