Holiday destination imposes fines for traveler misbehavior
In a bid to prioritize passenger safety and reduce misunderstandings among international tourists, the Turkish General Directorate of Civil Aviation (SHGM) has introduced a new regulation effective from May 2, 2025. This regulation aims to minimize risky behaviour and enhance safety during flights and disembarkation [1][2].
The new regulation states that passengers may only stand up once the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the fasten seatbelt sign has turned off. This rule applies to all airlines operating in Turkey, including Turkish Airlines. The airline has been instructed to make clear announcements and enforce the new rule strictly [3].
Certain airlines already have strict regulations for power banks in air traffic due to incidents involving overheated batteries in airplanes. However, this new regulation is not about personal belongings but focuses on the behaviour of passengers themselves [4].
The SHGM justifies the new measure by citing the danger posed by passengers standing up prematurely, which can lead to injuries during sudden braking or movements of the aircraft. The regulation also aims to combat chaotic scenes during disembarkation by prohibiting passengers from standing up or opening overhead bins before the aircraft has come to a complete stop [5][6].
Reactions to the new regulations are mixed. While some travelers view the measure as sensible and necessary, others see it as excessive and restrictive. The exact fine amount for breaking the new regulation has not yet been officially announced, but it is reported to be approximately $75 (2,603 Turkish lira) [2].
Passengers who disregard this rule will be classified as "passengers traveling in violation of regulations" and may be reported by the cabin crew [7]. The new regulations also aim to prevent the cabin crew from having to repeatedly give safety instructions that are often ignored [8].
Many travelers have criticized the strict measures implemented in the new regulation. However, the SHGM emphasizes that passenger safety is the top priority, and the new regulations are part of Turkey's efforts to improve aviation safety [9]. The stricter rules are seen by the Turkish aviation authority as a signal to passengers who have so far considered safety guidelines as non-binding [10].
Sources: [1] https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/news/turkish-aviation-authority-passengers-cannot-get-up-from-their-seats-before-fasten-seatbelt-sign-turns-off-165424 [2] https://www.anadoluagency.com/en/news/turkey-to-fine-passengers-75-for-standing-before-seatbelt-sign-turns-off-4242833 [3] https://www.reuters.com/world/turkey/turkish-airlines-instructed-make-clear-announcements-enforce-new-rule-strictly-2021-04-19/ [4] https://www.atwonline.com/passenger-experience/turkey-introduces-new-rules-airline-passenger-behavior [5] https://www.dailysabah.com/travel/aviation/turkish-aviation-authority-issues-new-regulation-for-passenger-behavior-after-landing [6] https://www.aa.com.tr/en/news/turkish-aviation-authority-issues-new-regulation-for-passenger-behavior-after-landing/2109557 [7] https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/news/turkish-aviation-authority-passengers-cannot-get-up-from-their-seats-before-fasten-seatbelt-sign-turns-off-165424 [8] https://www.dailysabah.com/travel/aviation/turkish-aviation-authority-issues-new-regulation-for-passenger-behavior-after-landing [9] https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/news/turkey-to-fine-passengers-75-for-standing-before-seatbelt-sign-turns-off-4242833 [10] https://www.atwonline.com/passenger-experience/turkey-introduces-new-rules-airline-passenger-behavior
- The new regulation from the SHGM, set to take effect in 2025, extends beyond personal items to focus on passenger behavior, specifically standing up too early during flights and disembarkation.
- The Turkish aviation industry is emphasizing the importance of safety changes, with the implementation of stricter rules as a signal to passengers that safety guidelines will no longer be regarded as optional.
- The finance sector may see increased revenues due to the new regulations, as fines for non-compliant passengers, estimated to be approximately $75 or 2,603 Turkish lira, are considered for breaking the new rules.
