Holidaymakers in Turkey who rush to stand up as soon as an aircraft lands could soon face financial penalties. Turkey’s civil aviation authority has introduced a new rule designed to stop impatient travellers from jumping into the aisle before it is safe to disembark. Passengers caught leaving their seats while the plane is still moving may be fined around $70 (£52).
Under the regulation, airlines must make clear announcements reminding passengers that they must stay seated, keep seatbelts fastened during landing, and remain in their seats until the plane has parked at the gate. Even after the seatbelt sign is switched off, disembarkation will only be allowed row by row. Those who disobey risk being reported to aviation officials and fined.
The measure follows common scenes of passengers unbuckling and queuing down the aisle the moment wheels touch the runway. Authorities say the behaviour causes unnecessary chaos and safety concerns as the aircraft continues taxiing. The new fines aim to curb this impatience and encourage calmer disembarkation.
Turkey’s flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, which currently flies to more international destinations than any other airline, is among those enforcing the change. Other major airlines in the region, such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, are also reported to be considering similar rules to stop passengers crowding the aisle before arrival at the gate.
The issue of unruly passenger behaviour is not limited to disembarkation. Airlines worldwide struggle with travellers trying to board ahead of their group. American Airlines recently piloted new boarding pass scanners in several U.S. airports. If a passenger attempts to board before their group is called, the scanner triggers an alarm and alerts the gate agent to intervene.
According to American Airlines, this system is designed to streamline the boarding process, eliminate queue-jumping, and ensure premium passengers receive their priority boarding benefits.
