- The Turkish government is fining passengers who get antsy and stand up in the air before the plane reaches the jetbridge.
- According to new regulations, fliers who stand up or enter the aisle, unbuckle their seatbelts, and/or unbuckle the belts could face fines of up to $70.
- The new fine aims to stop passengers from collecting items on the plane while it is still moving, putting other passengers at risk.
You might want to take your time the next time you fly to Turkey. If you grab that bag too fast, you may have to pay an expensive fine.
The Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) announced in May that it will fine passengers who stand up, unbuckle their seatbelts, enter the aisle or open the door. overhead bin The plane must be stopped before it can deplane. Associated Press reported.
According to the agency’s announcement“Passengers not following the rules are reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation by way of a disruptive passengers report and will receive an administrative fine.” The announcement doesn’t specify the exact amount of the fine. The AP reported that local media reports suggest the fine could be as high as $70.
In order to make sure that all travelers are aware of these rules, the AP has noted that commercial aircraft operating in Turkey will now have to update their in-flight messages to include a mention of this rule and warn that passengers must remain seated at all times or they may be fined and their names reported to Turkish Directorate of Civil Aviation.
EuroNews Turkish Airlines’ landing announcement has been updated. Now, it states, “Passengers who don’t comply with the rules are reported to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation by way of a Disruptive Passenger report, and a administrative fine is imposed according to applicable legal regulations.”
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In a move that will be applauded by most travelers, the AP stated that the announcement should also include a warning that passengers are to let the row in front of them leave first before rushing past and causing a congestion.
The directorate released a statement to the AP that stated, “Despite the announcements informing the passengers of the rules many stand up before the plane reaches its parking position and before the seatbelt sign is turned off.” This behavior compromises both the safety of passengers as well as their luggage. [and] Disregarding the satisfaction and priority exit of other travellers.”
It’s not the first time this rule has been used. As the New York Times In the U.S. passengers may also be fined if they fail to obey crew orders or engage in “disruptive or violent behavior.” These fines are up to $37,000 for each violation. Passengers who behave badly could face jail time and an FBI investigation.
Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants – CWA, provided a statement of support to the AP. She noted that passengers should stay seated at all times and follow the instructions of crew members. Nelson said, “Listen carefully to the flight attendants’ instructions and obey them to reach your destination safely.”
