Türkiye to fine airline passengers who stand before plane stops

The rule, part of a newly issued “Passenger Announcements Circular,” went into effect earlier in May and applies to all commercial flights operating within Türkiye. The move aims to improve passenger safety and cabin order after reports of rising incidents during aircraft taxiing.

Fines for Early Movement

According to the circular, passengers who stand, open overhead compartments, or attempt to leave their seats before the aircraft reaches its designated parking spot and the seatbelt sign is turned off will be classified as "Passengers Acting Against Rules" and may face administrative fines.

While the DGCA has not officially confirmed the amount, local media report the fine could be around 2,603 Turkish lira (approximately $67).

Airlines Must Enforce New Rules

Airlines are now required to update in-flight announcements to clearly warn passengers of the penalties for violating disembarkation rules. Turkish Airlines has already informed its cabin crews about the changes, and all carriers must follow the new announcement protocol.

A special warning will now be added to the standard “farewell announcement” after landing, reminding passengers to stay seated until the seatbelt sign is switched off.

Focus on Safety and Order

The DGCA explained the decision came after repeated inspections and complaints from both passengers and flight crews about unsafe behavior during post-landing taxiing.

“These actions risk the safety of passengers and baggage, and disrupt disembarkation for others,” the agency said in a statement. “Additional steps have been taken to raise awareness and enforce accountability.”

The new measures reflect a growing effort to promote safe and respectful conduct on board flights across Türkiye.