Airline passengers in Turkey who remove their seat belts, climb onto overhead bins or occupy the aisle before the plane comes to a complete stop could now face fines under new rules.
Updated regulations issued by the country's civil aviation authority are aimed at improving safety and ensuring more orderly disembarkations and came into effect earlier this month.
The measures were taken after complaints from passengers and flight inspections revealed an increasing number of safety violations during taxiing after landing, Turkey's Civil Aviation Authority said.
In Turkey, it is common for passengers to stand up or move around the cabin shortly after the plane lands, often resulting in a disorderly disembarkation.
Under the new rules, commercial airlines flying to Turkey are required to provide an updated version of the standard onboard announcement to remain seated, warning that violations will be recorded and reported, according to a circular issued by the aviation authority.
Passengers are also advised that they should wait for those seated in front of them to exit, rather than trying to get ahead.
The circular does not specify the amount of the fine for passengers who do not comply with the rules, but Turkish media reports suggest fines could be around £50.
“Despite announcements informing passengers of the rules, many stand up even before the plane reaches the parking area and before the sign with the inscription “Fasten seat belts” goes out,” the aviation authority said.
“Such behavior jeopardizes the safety of both passengers and luggage and disregards the satisfaction and exit priority of other travelers,” the statement said.
There are no immediate reports yet confirming that the newly introduced fines are already being applied.
Türkiye is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of travelers every year.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
