If you’re flying to Turkey, here’s something you’ll want to keep in mind—getting up from your seat too early after landing could land you with a fine. As air travel to Turkey increases post-pandemic, the country’s aviation authorities are cracking down on in-flight behavior that compromises safety.

New Airline Rules in Turkey: What Passengers Need to Know

The Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation has issued a fresh warning to passengers: stay seated with your seatbelt fastened until the plane reaches its gate and the seatbelt sign is off. This rule isn’t just about etiquette—it’s now a matter of compliance. Violators could face an administrative fine, which, according to local sources, may be around 2,603 Turkish Lira (approximately ₹5,000).

This directive follows multiple complaints and on-the-ground inspections showing a rising trend of passengers standing, opening overhead bins, and crowding aisles before the aircraft is safely parked. Not only does this behavior risk personal safety, but it also creates chaos for fellow travelers and disrupts the crew’s duties.

According to the official statement, “Despite clear in-flight announcements, many travelers ignore protocols, putting everyone at risk during the crucial taxiing phase.” The Turkish aviation authority has confirmed that passengers reported for such behavior may be penalized under existing civil aviation laws.

What Airlines and Passengers Should Expect Moving Forward

Meanwhile, airlines operating in Turkey are being instructed to update their cabin crew protocols immediately. New safety announcements will now be made before departure, during the flight, and again before landing. These messages emphasize the importance of staying seated and not accessing overhead storage until it’s safe to do so.

The revised passenger announcement now reads: “Dear passengers, our aircraft has not yet reached its parking position. It is strictly forbidden to stand up, open overhead compartments, or move into the aisle before the aircraft has reached its parking position and the seatbelt sign has been turned off.”

Notably, passengers are also reminded to wait their turn when disembarking and to respect the order of exit to avoid congestion in the aisles. If someone violates these rules, flight attendants are required to file a Disruptive Passenger Report, which may result in a fine and further action by the aviation authority.

In a previous interview with The Washington Post, Jennifer “Jaki” Johnson, CEO of Jetsetter Chic, noted, “Standing up while the plane is still taxiing is a real safety hazard.” If even one person is on their feet, the aircraft cannot proceed to the gate, causing delays that impact connecting flights and ground operations.

So the next time you land in Turkey, keep your seatbelt fastened and your patience in check. It’s not just about courtesy—it’s now the law.