Starting from early May 2025, a new requirement introduced by Turkey’s General Directorate of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has come into force. Passengers are strictly prohibited from standing up, unfastening seatbelts, opening overhead luggage compartments, or moving around the cabin until the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the seatbelt sign is switched off. Violators may face fines of up to approximately 2,603 Turkish lira (around $67).
Objectives of the New Rule
Improving safety — preventing injuries caused by sudden aircraft movements or falling carry-on luggage.
Reducing chaos during disembarkation — organizing the exit process so passengers leave the aircraft in proper order.
Reducing workload for cabin crew — minimizing the need for repeated safety reminders.
How the Rule Will Be Enforced
- Airlines, including Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines, have already updated onboard announcements to include warnings about fines and the proper disembarkation procedure.
- Passengers must remain seated with seatbelts fastened until the aircraft has fully stopped and crew authorization is given.
- Cabin crew will record violations and submit passenger details to the DGCA through official channels for fine issuance.
What This Means for Passengers
- If you are used to standing up immediately after landing, you should be prepared to remain seated until taxiing is complete and a clear signal is given.
- A monetary fine may be imposed even if you are a tourist, as the regulation applies regardless of passengers’ nationality.
- From a safety perspective, the measure is considered reasonable, although its effectiveness depends on strict enforcement and monitoring.
- If you are traveling to Antalya or transiting through Turkey, it is strongly recommended to keep your seatbelt fastened, wait for the aircraft to stop completely, listen carefully to crew announcements, and remain calm. This will help you avoid penalties and ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.