Turkey Introduces Fines for Premature Standers on Flights

Fri Oct 17 2025 11:05:43 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

New regulations implement penalties for passengers who stand before planes fully halt.

Turkey's Directorate General of Civil Aviation has enforced new rules this month allowing for fines against airline passengers who stand or move before their aircraft has come to a complete stop, aiming to enhance flight safety and reduce disruptions.

The Turkish government has rolled out a stringent new policy targeting unruly behavior aboard flights, specifically targeting passengers who stand or unbuckle their seatbelts before an aircraft has fully stopped. Under this regulation issued by the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation, passengers are now liable for fines if they attempt to access their belongings, such as overhead compartments, without waiting for the aircraft to stabilize.

Passengers are reminded to adhere to existing airline protocols, which require them to remain seated until the "fasten seatbelt" sign is switched off. The government stated that offenders will be reported and may receive an administrative fine, though the specific amounts were not disclosed.

The policy aims to curb safety risks associated with premature standing, which can include falls during sudden stops and potential injuries from luggage falling from overhead bins. Moreover, keeping the aisles clear is crucial for facilitating emergency evacuations, according to officials.

A report from the International Air Transport Association highlights that non-compliance with crew instructions was the most common form of unruly behavior among passengers in 2023. The consequences of such actions not only pose safety threats but also lead to operational disruptions, escalating costs for airlines.

In contrast, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has similar penalties in place for passengers who fail to comply with crew instructions, with potential fines reaching $37,000 per violation, especially in more severe cases that may require FBI intervention.

The increase in unruly behavior on flights has been particularly notable since the pandemic began, largely attributed to passengers resisting mask mandates. In 2021, a significant survey revealed that virtually all flight attendants encountered unruly passengers, with many reporting direct confrontations. Comparatively, incidents reported by the FAA decreased from nearly 6,000 in 2021 to just over 2,000 in both 2022 and 2023.

Ultimately, both the Turkish government and the FAA emphasize the importance of maintaining safety protocols in the skies and ensuring that all passengers adhere to the rules for a safer travel experience.