Starting May 2025, Turkish Airlines passengers will face fines if they stand up before the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the seatbelt sign is switched off.

The new regulations are already in effect, and flight crews have been notified to enforce the rule.

New Regulations for Passenger Behavior

The Turkish General Directorate of Civil Aviation (SHGM) issued a new circular on May 2, introducing fines for passengers who break this rule.

The change requires flight attendants to make an extra announcement after the standard landing instructions, specifically telling passengers to stay seated until the seatbelt sign is off.

The circular outlines that in-flight announcements have been updated to emphasize the importance of staying seated and avoiding actions like smoking or standing up before the aircraft has fully stopped.

This is part of a broader effort to improve passenger discipline and awareness during flights.

Enforcing the New Rules

Turkish Airlines has briefed its staff about these new protocols.

Under the updated policy, passengers who attempt to stand before the aircraft has come to a full stop, open overhead bins, or move about the cabin contrary to crew instructions will be subject to fines and administrative penalties.

A Look at International Comparisons

In Russia, similar regulations exist, where passengers can face fines or even arrest for violating behavior rules on various forms of transport, including air travel.

Violations can result in fines ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 rubles or even up to 15 days of administrative detention.

Moreover, Russian airlines have the option to blacklist unruly passengers, a practice that has been under review for further expansion.

Additionally, in May 2022, Russia gave flight crews the authority to use plastic handcuffs or nylon restraints against violent or disruptive passengers, showing the serious nature of handling passenger misbehavior during flights.

Turkey’s new measures are part of a broader push to enhance safety and maintain order in the skies, setting a precedent for stricter passenger conduct across airlines worldwide.