New Turkish Aviation Regulation Imposes Fines on Passengers Standing Before Landings

The Turkish civil aviation authority has implemented a new regulation penalizing passengers who stand up before the seatbelt sign is turned off after landing. This decision follows multiple complaints regarding safety issues during disembarking.

In a bid to improve passenger safety and reduce incidents during aircraft disembarkation, the Turkish civil aviation authority has introduced a new regulation that levies fines on airline passengers who ignore the seatbelt sign after landing. The rule, which went into effect earlier this month, is a response to increasing complaints from travelers regarding unsafe behaviors, particularly the tendency to stand up and retrieve overhead luggage before the aircraft has taxied to a complete stop.

Reports indicate that fines may be approximately US$70 (£50), although the official guidance from the aviation authority does not specify the exact amount. The directive underscores the importance of maintaining safety protocols during the landing phase, where the authority noted a "serious increase" in such incidents and a significant rise in complaints associated with preemptive standing and stowing of luggage.

As part of the new rules, commercial airlines are mandated to provide passengers with clear in-flight announcements reinforcing the necessity to remain seated until the seatbelt sign indicates it is safe to stand. Furthermore, airlines are required to report passengers who violate this directive to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, triggering potential fines.

Notably, Turkish Airlines, among the nation’s leading carriers, has revised its landing announcements to incorporate this new regulation, clearly articulating that noncompliant passengers will be flagged via a Disruptive Passenger Report. The airline reassures its patrons that safety remains a priority, emphasizing adherence to regulatory standards to ensure a smoother travel experience for everyone on board.