Passengers beware: This country will fine travelers that stand up too soon on the plane
In one particular country, impatient air passengers face a financial penalty if they leave their seat too early after landing.
Air passengers who stand up too early after landing - a practice known in travel parlance as “aisle rushing” - face a fine in Turkey.
In a memo issued in May, the Turkish Directorate General of Civil Aviation confirmed that it had approved financial penalties for travelers arriving in the country if they fail to remain seated until their plane has finished taxiing.
“Endangers passenger safety”
“Despite announcements informing passengers about the rules during taxiing after landing,” Turkey’s civil aviation authority said, “there has been an increase in the number who have stood up, gone into the aisle, opened overhead bins, and proceeded along the aisle, before the aircraft has reached the parking position and the seat belt warning lights have been turned off.”
This “endangers passenger and baggage safety and security, and disregards the satisfaction and exit priority of other passengers”, the Directorate General said.
The agency continued: “Passengers who unfasten their seat belts and get up before the seat belt warning lights are turned off, may be penalized with administrative fines by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.”
How much can impatient passengers be fined?
While the Turkish authority did not confirm how much passengers stand to be fined for breaking the rules, the Associated Press has cited local media as saying that “aisle rushers” can expect to pay a penalty of up to $70.
In its May memo, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation said airlines operating passenger services to Turkish airports would be asked to revise their in-flight announcements to warn travelers of the potential fine.
The agency added that the policy of handing out monetary punishments came into effect on May 2.
Related stories
Scientist reveals trick to cool your car quickly
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment