If you’re flying to Türkiye, better keep that seatbelt fastened until the plane fully stops — or risk a fine.
The Turkish Directorate of Civil Aviation has introduced new regulations targeting impatient passengers who unbuckle, stand up, or open overhead compartments before the aircraft has finished taxiing to the gate. This move aims to improve onboard safety and reduce repeated safety announcements during arrivals.
Under these updated rules, airlines operating flights in Türkiye must revise their in-flight announcements to clearly instruct passengers to remain seated with seatbelts fastened until the plane has reached its final stopping point. Announcements must also remind travelers to let passengers in front disembark first.
Passengers who ignore these instructions will be documented and reported to authorities, with fines reportedly reaching up to $70 for violators, according to Turkish media. Although the civil aviation authority has not confirmed exact penalties, the regulations were introduced following a noticeable rise in safety violations and passenger complaints.
The problem of “aisle rushers”—those who immediately stand and grab their bags when the seatbelt sign goes off—has become a common frustration on flights to Türkiye. The new policy aims to discourage such behavior, ensuring safer, more orderly disembarkation.
These rules came into effect earlier this month, just as Türkiye continues welcoming millions of tourists annually. Airlines must now make announcements emphasizing that seatbelts remain fastened until the plane stops and that opening overhead lockers prematurely is prohibited.
So next time you fly into Türkiye, remember: buckle up until the plane is fully parked or you might face a fine. Patience is not only safer but now mandatory.
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