Are you one of those who gets up from the seat before the plane stops? Maybe, you were. Why? Because in Turkey that now comes with a fine! We’ve all seen it (and suffered it): the plane has barely touched down, it’s still taxiing, and there’s already someone unbuckling their seatbelt and getting up as if they were in a race. What’s the rush, George?
Turkey had enough. From now on, that impatience can cost you $75.
Wait, what?
The General Directorate of Civil Aviation has said it’s time to approve a new rule that authorizes the crew to warn, report, and, if necessary, fine anyone who does not know how to wait until the plane comes to a complete stop. Standing up before the signal is off is now not only annoying but punishable, be careful!
It’s not just a matter of manners
The director of the agency, Kemal Yüksek, has been quite clear: this is not arbitrary, it’s for safety. Is it difficult to understand? Because yes, getting up too soon can cause accidents!! From silly trips to obstructing an emergency evacuation, or getting hit by loosely secured luggage when someone opens the compartment too early.
And since it doesn’t look like people will change willingly, they’ve put a price on the bad habit: 2,603 Turkish lira, which is about 75$. It won’t ruin anyone, but it does make you think twice.
This isn’t just happening in Turkey
Other countries had already been setting limits. In the United States, the FAA has for years said that any inappropriate behavior during taxiing must be reported. And if there’s a confrontation with the crew, things escalate quickly.
In 2021 there was a spike in incidents, mostly due to the mandatory use of masks, and although the situation has improved, by 2024 there have already been nearly 900 cases reported in just nine months. No, it’s not a minor issue.
Why does it bother so much when someone stands up too early?
Aside from the obvious, it’s not safe, it’s a lack of respect for the rest of the passengers. Getting into the aisle when the door isn’t even open yet causes shoving, blockages, and a bad atmosphere. If you have a tight connection, fine. But if not, wait your turn like everyone else.
In fact, IATA has data to back this up: in 2017, there was one incident for every 1,053 flights. And the trend hasn’t improved much since then. That’s why more and more countries are taking measures to ensure the cabin remains a safe space… even when you’re already on the ground.
It’s not about five minutes. It’s about doing things right.
Yes, we all feel like stretching after hours sitting down. But until the plane comes to a complete stop, safety rules are still in effect. And although many see it as nonsense, the truth is that this rush can cause falls, hinder the crew, and, in case of emergency, make everything more complicated than necessary.
With this new rule, Turkey sends a clear message: safety comes first. And at the same time, it puts a stop to a gesture that has become routine… but never should have been.
So now you know: if you fly to Istanbul and can’t stay seated those last few minutes, get ready to pay $75 for jumping the clock.