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Turkey fines tourists making common mistake - and other countries may follow
Turkey fines tourists making common mistake - and other countries may follow
Travel experts say other popular holiday destinations may now make similar rules
Passengers waiting to get off a plane
Turkey is to implement a policy which will penalise passengers who smoke on board aircraft - as well as those who stand up before the aircraft is parked and the seatbelt signs are turned off. In 2024, an estimated 4.4 million British tourists visited Turkey, a 16.6% increase compared to the 3.3 million visitors in 2023.
That means millions could be at risk of the common mistake - as many people undo their seatbelts and stand while the plane is taxiing towards the departure area in a bid to grab their bags and coats from the overhead locker, or beat the rush to get into the aisle.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of Turkey: "The 'Passenger Announcements Circular' No. UOD – 2025/01, prepared to revise and promptly implement standard, up-to-date announcements with the aim of warning passengers who smoke or use tobacco products on board, as well as those who stand up and disrupt order before the aircraft reaches its parking position and before the seatbelt signs are turned off, in order to discipline such passengers and raise awareness among all passengers, was approved by the Directorate General and entered into force on 02.05.2025."
Ivaylo Danailov, CEO of airline compensation specialists SkyRefund said: 'On the positive side, this is clearly intended to enhance passenger safety. If it encourages passengers to remain seated, reducing risks of injuries due to unexpected turbulence or abrupt aircraft movement while taxiing, that's to be welcomed and it is likely to support crew efforts to enforce safety rules more effectively.
"It may also deter passengers from engaging in disruptive or premature movement in the cabin, making disembarkation more orderly, which, in turn, may help airport operations. It also positions Turkey's aviation authority as serious about enforcing international flight safety standards and could set a precedent for other countries to implement similar measures. However, it could lead to passenger frustration or even confusion with tourists unfamiliar with the rules potentially feeling unfairly targeted or surprised by fines. Enforcement could be seen as overly aggressive.
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"Airlines, in turn, may need to train staff to report violations, handle disputes, and manage documentation for fines. Delays or conflicts could arise during enforcement, especially on short-haul or budget flights.
"Consideration will need to be given as to how are passengers identified, warned, and fined, with a potential for disputes if fines are perceived as arbitrary or unevenly applied. If - and it's a big if - it is perceived as hostile or inconvenient, it may affect Turkey's image among some tourists, particularly in peak travel seasons.
"But, if it is successful, other countries may follow suit, especially those already dealing with unruly passenger behaviour. It could influence best practice or recommendations for post-landing safety protocols.'"
