British tourists who stand up while seatbelt sign is on face fines in Turkey

Telegraph

2 days ago

British holidaymakers in Turkey could face fines if they stand up before their plane seatbelt sign has been turned off.
The Turkish civil aviation authority says new rules came into force earlier this month following a rise in complaints about passengers standing up while the sign was still on
Offenders will face fines of about £50, Turkish media report, although the aviation authority has not confirmed the exact financial penalty.
The fines are expected to be imposed on the spot and enforced through the submission of formal reports by airline staff.
The aviation authority said there had been a 'serious increase' in complaints about passengers standing up before the seatbelt had been turned off – often while the plane is still taxiing.
Under the new rules, cabin crew are required to deliver a revised version of the in-flight landing announcement.
It will instruct passengers to remain seated with their seatbelt fastened until the aircraft has stopped moving and the seatbelt sign has been turned off, advising them that violations will be reported.
Passengers must also refrain from opening overhead lockers or attempting to collect their belongings while the plane is in motion.
The updated rules apply to all commercial flights operating in Turkey, which remains one of the most popular destinations for British holidaymakers, and attracts tens of millions of international visitors each year.
Turkish Airlines, the country's leading carrier, has already updated its landing announcement, reports Euronews.
'Passengers who do not comply with the rules will be reported to the directorate general of civil aviation through a disruptive passenger report, and an administrative fine will be imposed in accordance with the applicable legal regulations,' the airline announcement is reported to say. The Telegraph has contacted the airline for comment.
Turkish authorities have reportedly instructed airlines to begin implementing the new announcement guidelines.
The move places Turkey among a small number of countries seeking to formalise penalties for conduct that aviation authorities typically leave to the discretion of airlines and cabin crews.
The Turkish directorate of civil aviation said: 'Despite announcements informing passengers of the rules, many are standing up before the aircraft reaches its parking positions and before the seat belt sign is turned off.
'This behaviour compromises the safety of passengers and baggage, disregards the satisfaction and exit priority of other travellers.'