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The in-flight mistake that could now land you a surprise fine

Plane etiquette just got real, and breaking it could cost you.

Traveling by plane can be frustrating enough as it is — the long lines, the cramped seats, the guy in 17B who somehow brought an entire meal from home and zero self-awareness.

But one thing that seems to get under everyone’s skin? That moment the plane barely touches down, and half the passengers leap out of their seats like they’re about to win a prize for grabbing their bag first.

Interior of airplane with passengers on seats and female traveler walking the aisle. Commercial economy flight service concept
Photo credit: Matej Kastelic / Shutterstock

If you’ve ever been tempted to stand up before the seatbelt sign goes off — or if you’re a chronic offender — consider this your official warning: you could now be fined for it.

That’s right. Turkey has officially had enough. Their aviation authority has rolled out a new rule cracking down on passengers who jump the gun during landing. If you unbuckle, stand up, or start rummaging through the overhead bins before the aircraft parks and the seatbelt sign turns off, you could be fined around 2,603 Turkish lira — that’s about $67 USD, according to The Washington Post.

Turkish Airlines stewardesses at Teknofest Ankara. Cabin crew members, smiling women portrait. Ankara, Turkey - August 30, 2023.
Photo credit: Erman Gunes / Shutterstock

What’s behind the rule?

It’s not just about manners (although that wouldn’t hurt either). The rule is part of an effort by Türkiye’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation to improve safety and keep the cabin chaos under control during landing and deplaning.

Flight crews are now instructed to issue warnings to any passenger who doesn’t follow the seatbelt sign or tries to beat the rush. And if you ignore the rules? You’ll be reported via a “Disruptive Passenger Report” and could face a fine under Turkish aviation law.

Budapest, Hungary - 25th May, 2017. People are standing and sitting in an airplane cabin before disembarking.
Photo credit: Viktor Konya / Shutterstock

Keep that seatbelt clicked until the light goes off

The next time you’re flying to, from, or through Turkey, resist the urge to jump up the second those wheels hit the tarmac. The only thing waiting for you at the front of the plane might be a fine.

And honestly? Staying seated for 30 more seconds probably won’t ruin your trip. But a $67 surprise charge just might.

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