Turkey To Fine Airline Passengers Who Unbuckle Before Plane Stops

The Turkish Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has announced that airline passengers to Turkey will be fined if they stand up before the seatbelt sign turns off after landing. The aviation regulator reportedly said that the decision was made after receiving complaints from passengers. The updated rules came into effect earlier this month.

Commercial airlines must now issue an in-flight announcement and report those who do not follow orders, reported BBC. Passengers must be instructed to keep their seatbelts locked and remain seated, with overhead lockers closed, until the seatbelt sign is turned off. Turkish media reports indicate that rule-breakers could be fined approximately US$70 (£50).

The authority issued a warning about a "serious increase" in such violations, noting that numerous complaints have emerged related to passengers grabbing overhead baggage before the plane was parked. “This behavior compromises the safety of passengers and baggage, disregards the satisfaction and exit priority of other travelers," the aviation authority said, as quoted by The Associated Press.