Turkey has introduced a new aviation regulation: passengers who stand up before the plane comes to a complete stop will be fined $70. The new rule applies to both domestic and international flights and has already attracted attention across Europe.
The initiative comes from Turkey’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation and is aimed at addressing increasingly common breaches of disembarkation protocol.
Jumping up the moment the plane touches down is a behavior familiar to many travelers. Passengers hurry to grab their bags and line up in the aisle, often ignoring flight attendants’ instructions and the illuminated seatbelt sign. Turkish authorities argue that such actions not only disrupt order but also pose safety risks, especially in case of abrupt halts or unforeseen maneuvers. The new regulation mandates that all passengers remain seated until the aircraft has come to a full stop and the crew gives permission to disembark.
Fines will be issued not by airlines but directly by the government. Flight crews are required to report non-compliant passengers to the relevant authorities. According to official statements, airlines must inform passengers about the rule via onboard displays and public announcements. One such announcement, in English, will say: “Please respect the disembarkation procedure and wait for your turn. Do not stand or proceed down the aisle until instructed. Non-compliant passengers will be reported and fined under applicable regulations”, writes The Sun.
The regulation is intended to improve safety and maintain order during landing and disembarkation. Officials stress that this is not about punishment but about reminding passengers that air travel has specific safety protocols. Notably, similar measures are being discussed in other countries. According to reports by the German news agency DPA, Spain, Cyprus, and the UAE are all considering administrative penalties for early disembarkation.
While such rules have not yet been adopted in Israel, recent legislative discussions in the Knesset about “stricter behavioral norms in transport” suggest that Turkey’s move may serve as a precedent. This is particularly relevant amid growing tourist volumes and a rise in incidents involving unruly passengers.
Turkey’s new regulation may set a standard for other nations: in an era of crowded flights and tight schedules, maintaining order on board is not just a matter of courtesy—it’s a matter of safety.
