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Time of India
4 days ago
- Time of India
Flying to Turkey? This one annoying in-flight habit might earn you a hefty fine
In the evolving world of air travel, passenger conduct has become as important as ticketing, boarding, and security protocols. While most aviation safety regulations focus on in-flight behavior and emergency preparedness, Turkey is now turning its attention to a different, often-overlooked part of the journey—the moments immediately after landing. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now In an unprecedented move that is stirring debate across travel communities, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in Turkey has introduced a new directive that allows for the imposition of fines on passengers who stand up prematurely after the aircraft touches down. This long-overdue regulation addresses one of the most universally irritating aspects of flying—the chaotic aisle rush. Whether due to impatience or a desire to grab overhead baggage early, many passengers unbuckle their seatbelts and jump to their feet before the aircraft has even come to a complete stop. While previously dismissed as a mere inconvenience or social faux pas, Turkish authorities now view this behavior as a breach of safety and aviation discipline, worthy of financial penalty. According to The Economic Times report, the new regulation, issued by DGCA chief Kemal Yüksek, introduces fines of up to 2,603 Turkish Lira (approximately $70 or Rs 5,700) for offenders. Turkey to fine passengers for standing too soon after landing It's a familiar scenario on virtually every commercial flight: the moment the wheels touch the tarmac, a chorus of seatbelt clicks erupts. Passengers leap to their feet, pushing into the narrow aisle in a frantic attempt to retrieve their luggage and be the first to exit. This behavior is so ingrained in travel culture that many have stopped questioning its safety implications. However, the DGCA has called attention to the real risks involved: Passenger safety : Abrupt movements during taxiing can result in falls or injuries, particularly during sudden stops or sharp turns. : Abrupt movements during taxiing can result in falls or injuries, particularly during sudden stops or sharp turns. Baggage hazards : Prematurely opened overhead bins pose a risk of falling items, potentially causing injury to seated passengers. : Prematurely opened overhead bins pose a risk of falling items, potentially causing injury to seated passengers. Emergency interference : In the event of a sudden emergency or pilot communication, standing passengers can obstruct crew members and emergency protocols. : In the event of a sudden emergency or pilot communication, standing passengers can obstruct crew members and emergency protocols. Flight delays and disruptions: Disorderly deplaning may delay aircraft turnaround and cause issues for connecting flights. The Turkish aviation authority now argues that standing early is not just rude—it's dangerous and disruptive. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now New Turkish aviation rule: $70 fine for rushing the aisle According to reports, the new policy was introduced in early 2025 through an official communication from Kemal Yüksek, head of the DGCA. The directive states that any passenger who: Unbuckles their seatbelt while the plane is still taxiing, Opens overhead bins before the aircraft has come to a complete stop at the gate, Pushes ahead of others in line, ignoring disembarkation order, will be subject to penalties under existing civil aviation codes. The fine for violations has been capped at 2,603 Turkish Lira, or approximately $70 (Rs 5,700)—a figure calibrated to be significant enough to act as a deterrent, yet not excessively punitive. Turkey's in-flight fine rule: Here's how it will be enforced The success of such a regulation hinges on enforcement, which raises logistical questions: Monitoring : Flight crews will be trained to monitor and report violations as they occur. Surveillance footage may also be reviewed in extreme cases. : Flight crews will be trained to monitor and report violations as they occur. Surveillance footage may also be reviewed in extreme cases. Reporting protocol : Airlines are required to submit incident reports to the DGCA if passengers violate the rule. : Airlines are required to submit incident reports to the DGCA if passengers violate the rule. Issuance of fines : Once reported, the DGCA will issue administrative fines to passengers, potentially via the contact information provided during ticket booking. : Once reported, the DGCA will issue administrative fines to passengers, potentially via the contact information provided during ticket booking. Appeals process: A provision is being developed for passengers to contest fines if they believe they were wrongly accused. According to The Economic Times report, Turkish carriers such as Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AnadoluJet are expected to begin rolling out onboard announcements and training sessions to inform passengers and crew. Is Turkey leading a new global trend While Turkey is among the first countries to monetize penalties for post-landing misconduct, the issue of unruly passenger behavior has been on the rise globally: FAA (United States): The Federal Aviation Administration recorded over 2,000 incidents of unruly passengers in 2023 alone, prompting fines exceeding $8 million. The recorded over 2,000 incidents of unruly passengers in 2023 alone, prompting fines exceeding $8 million. European Union: EU aviation regulators have discussed uniform penalties for various onboard disruptions, including non-compliance with crew instructions. EU aviation regulators have discussed uniform penalties for various onboard disruptions, including non-compliance with crew instructions. India and UAE: Authorities in these countries have urged stricter action against in-flight misconduct but have yet to implement fines for post-landing behavior. Given these global developments, Turkey's initiative may serve as a template for future policies elsewhere. International aviation bodies such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and ICAO may also weigh in if such practices gain traction across nations. Public reaction: Necessary regulation or overreach The Turkish public and global travel community are divided on the directive. Social media platforms have become hotbeds of debate: Supporters argue: 'Finally, someone is doing something about the chaos. It's dangerous and selfish behavior.' 'This will teach frequent offenders to be more considerate of others.' Critics claim: 'Fining passengers for standing up is overkill. The airlines should focus on better communication.' 'There are bigger problems in aviation—this seems like a distraction.' Despite the mixed reception, surveys conducted by Turkish travel blogs indicate that over 58% of passengers support the measure, especially if it leads to safer and more orderly deplaning. Airline responsibility: Educating before penalising Experts believe that for the policy to succeed, airlines must emphasize education over punishment—at least initially. Suggested approaches include: Updated announcements: Clear in-flight instructions in multiple languages before landing. Clear in-flight instructions in multiple languages before landing. Onboard videos: Short clips explaining the safety rationale behind waiting until full stop. Short clips explaining the safety rationale behind waiting until full stop. First-time warnings: Allowing a one-time warning for violators before issuing fines. Such proactive steps could ensure that the rule is seen as a means to enhance safety—not as a mere revenue tool. Cultural implications: Challenging the norm of impatience This policy also represents a cultural shift. In an age where immediacy is often rewarded, waiting for one's turn—even in an airplane aisle—goes against the grain of modern impatience. The DGCA's stance sends a clear message: Civility and discipline matter, even in mundane moments. Turkey's approach could influence not only airline policy but also traveler mindset. If successful, it could help re-establish norms of mutual respect, especially in crowded, shared spaces like airplanes.
IOL News
5 days ago
- IOL News
Don't let your impatience ground you: Turkey's new fines for early unbucklers
Under the new regulations, violators can face fines of up to 2,603 Turkish lira, roughly R1185. Under the new regulations, violators can face fines of up to 2,603 Turkish lira, roughly R1 185. This often leads to disarray and frustration for those abiding by the safety procedures. The scenario is all too familiar: as soon as the aircraft touches down, the sound of seat belts unbuckling fills the cabin, followed by a rush of passengers eager to get their hand luggage and leave the plane. In a decision to promote safety and civility among travellers, Turkey's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is putting its foot down on a persistent inflight nuisance: passengers standing up and gathering their belongings before the aircraft has fully parked and the seatbelt sign has switched off. Passengers are warned that any non-compliance could lead to reports being filed against them, resulting in a fine. Passengers are also reminded to wait for those in front of them to exit first, instead of rushing forward. Under the revised directive issued by Kemal Yüksek, chief of the DGCA, airlines operating within Turkey are now mandated to make in-flight announcements instructing passengers to remain seated, keep their seatbelts fastened, and refrain from accessing their luggage until it is appropriate to do so. 'This behaviour compromises the safety of passengers and baggage, disregards the satisfaction and exit priority of other travellers,' it 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,' the aviation authority noted. Tips to help you be on your best behaviour when flying for your next trip. Luggage When entering the flight, be sure to carry your bag in front of you and low to the ground as you walk down the aisle in search of your seat. This is to make sure that you don't knock other passengers when walking down the aisle. Also, avoid hogging the aisle when putting your bag in the overhead compartment to store it for the flight. You should take care when retrieving luggage from the overhead compartment. Exercise patience and make sure that you are also swift in your actions. Be sensitive to your seatmate When getting seated, try to acknowledge the person seated next to you with a greeting as you're starting off, and then you can read the other person to see whether they want to talk or not. Most people want some peace, so if a person doesn't want to engage, let them be. If the other person is chatty, politely excuse yourself. Keep your chair upright Space on aircraft is limited, so don't lean your chair back as the flight takes off. If you do decide to recline your chair when you can, make sure that it is allowed and do it slowly. Otherwise, you risk bumping the head of the unsuspecting passenger behind you who is getting something from the bag at their feet, or you could knock over the drink on their tray. Remember to return the seat to the upright position during the meal and drink servings, or if possible, wait until food and beverages are finished being served and cleaned up. Watch your alcohol consumption When you get on a flight, you are tempted to relax and kick back with a few drinks, but make sure to avoid getting drunk during or before the flight. You may be having the time of your life, but your fellow passengers may not think so (some airlines don't allow any passengers on board suspected of being over the limit on alcohol consumption). Keep an eye on any children you're travelling with When travelling with children, try to make sure that you are observant. Children tend to bump, kick or yank the seat in front of them without realising it throughout the flight, which can make the person in front of them very uncomfortable. It is difficult enough to control some children on a long flight, but it is even more difficult to deal with an angry passenger in front of you. Try to make sure that you have snacks and activities lined up to keep the young ones entertained. Disembark calmly When disembarking, follow the lead from your cabin crew on how to disembark. Be courteous of other people's belongings in the overhead compartment as you reach for your own, and offer to help them get their bags if you can. And as you leave, take the time to thank your flight attendants, they will appreciate your kindness.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Time of India
Can your flight impatience cost you big? Turkey to fine passengers for this common mis-etiquette
If you're one of those eager flyers who springs out of your seat the moment a plane touches down, here's a heads-up: Turkish aviation authorities may soon have your wallet in their sights. In a bold move to curb post-landing chaos , Turkey's aviation regulator is now officially cracking down on a familiar inflight annoyance—the premature aisle rush. Aisle Etiquette Just Got Serious Whether you've merely witnessed it or are guilty of it yourself, the scene is all too common. The wheels hit the tarmac, and a chorus of clicks erupts as seat belts come off. Passengers scramble to open overhead bins, pushing their way into the aisle before the aircraft even reaches the gate. It's become the most impatient tradition in the sky—and now it comes with a fine. According to Turkey's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), those who violate proper deplaning etiquette will no longer be let off with just glares from fellow passengers. As per the new directive issued by Kemal Yüksek, chief of the DGCA, violators will be reported and fined under existing civil aviation regulations. The amount? Up to 2,603 Turkish lira, which equals approximately $70 or Rs. 5700. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Fungo nas unhas: um truque simples reduz facilmente Acabe com o Fungo Undo 'An Administrative Fine Will Be Imposed' Yüksek didn't mince words. In an official statement, he declared that any passenger who 'does not respect the disembarkation priority of the passengers in front of or around you' risks both safety and civility. These impromptu aisle dashes, he said, not only create discomfort but also endanger baggage and passenger security. From unbuckling seatbelts while the plane is taxiing to opening overhead bins prematurely, the offenses listed read like a checklist of bad inflight behavior. Even those who edge into the aisle before their row is called may find themselves facing penalties. You Might Also Like: Bengaluru family boards flight to celebrate son's first day as captain; father's heartfelt LinkedIn post melts hearts: 'Keep flying, keep enjoying!' The rule has sparked debate among travelers—some call it necessary, others draconian. But there's no denying the sentiment behind the regulation: air travel decorum is in dire need of reinforcement. As reports of unruly behavior surge globally, Turkey's aviation watchdog is drawing a clear line—etiquette is no longer optional. Sit Tight or Pay the Price So the next time your plane touches down in Istanbul, Ankara, or Antalya, resist the temptation to leap into the aisle. The journey may be over, but your conduct is still under scrutiny. Wait for your turn, follow protocol, and avoid turning a simple act of impatience into an expensive lesson. After all, no one wants to start—or end—a trip with a fine for a few extra seconds of standing room. You Might Also Like: Man boards flight with falcon carrying its own passport; netizen exclaims, 'It's living a better life than...' Will you book a flight without knowing destination? But people went crazy for it. Tickets sold out in 4 minutes
Roya News
6 days ago
- Roya News
Turkey to fine passengers for standing up too soon on planes
Airline etiquette is about to become a legal matter in Turkey, where aviation officials are cracking down on impatient flyers who stand up before it's safe or jump ahead in the deplaning process. The Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation has approved new rules aimed at curbing unruly behavior during aircraft disembarkation. Under a directive issued by Director General Kemal Yüksek, passengers who ignore in-flight crew instructions and disrupt orderly exits can now face financial penalties. Cabin crews on flights landing in Turkey have been instructed to warn passengers that those who 'do not respect the disembarkation priority of the passengers in front of or around you' may be reported to authorities. These individuals could face an administrative fine in line with Turkish law, Yüksek said. The policy targets behaviors such as unbuckling seat belts while the aircraft is still taxiing, retrieving bags from overhead bins before stopping, and crowding the aisle before it's one's turn to exit. Yüksek emphasized that these actions have been increasingly reported and pose 'passenger and baggage safety and security' risks while also ignoring 'the satisfaction and exit priority' of others. While the directive does not specify a fine amount, Turkish broadcaster Halk TV reported that offenders may be charged approximately 2,603 Turkish lira — about USD 67. Disruptive behavior during deplaning is not just annoying — it can also delay flights. According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations in the US, if someone stands while the plane is still taxiing, flight attendants must inform the pilot, potentially delaying docking at the gate. Travel etiquette experts generally advise passengers to wait until the rows ahead have cleared before stepping into the aisle, unless someone has a tight connection.
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Business Standard
7 days ago
- Business Standard
This country will fine those who stand up and crowd aisles after landing
Passengers flying into or within Turkiye who stand up before an aircraft has come to a complete stop or crowd the aisle before their row is called will now face fines, according to a report by The Washington Post. The new rules were outlined in a circular issued by the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to curb disruptive and unsafe passenger behaviour during deplaning. Respect exit order, Turkish DGCA says 'Please respect the disembarkation priority of the passengers in front of or around you and wait for your turn,' the Turkish DGCA said in an official notice to airlines. The circular instructs cabin crew to monitor compliance and report violations directly to authorities. Passenger and baggage safety at risk Director General Kemal Yüksek said there has been a 'significant increase' in incidents of passengers ignoring safety protocols, jeopardising 'passenger and baggage safety and security' and disrupting the exit process for others. Under the new rules, passengers must remain seated with seatbelts fastened until the aircraft has fully parked and their row is called for disembarkation. Opening overhead compartments or unfastening seatbelts while taxiing are also offences subject to fines. ALSO READ | Fines of up to $67 Violating passengers may be fined up to 2,603 Turkish lira (about $67) without prior warning. Airlines must notify passengers about the new policy, and flight crews are expected to report non-compliance. Wider concerns about 'aisle lice' While Turkiye has formalised these rules, similar concerns exist elsewhere. In the US, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules also prohibit passengers from standing before the aircraft has parked, requiring flight attendants to alert the captain if passengers leave seats prematurely. Passengers who rush to the aisle—often nicknamed 'aisle lice' online—are criticised for impatience and rudeness. Etiquette experts suggest waiting for rows ahead to exit before moving into the aisle. Gate crowding measures In the US, some airports have introduced systems to reduce premature gate crowding, including alarms triggered when boarding passes are scanned before their zone is called.
