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We’ve all seen other people do it (none of US do it, of course). The plane lands and maybe then, or maybe while we’re taxiing, they unbuckle their seatbelts, stand up and maybe even get their carry-on bags out of the overheads.

Of course, this is not the smartest thing to do. If the plane is still moving, there’s a chance it could stop quickly, get bumped by another plane, etc. That’s why, just as you’re supposed to wear a seatbelt in a moving car, you’re required to remain seated, with your seatbelt on, until the plane comes to a complete stop at the gate and the pilot turns off the “fasten seatbelt” sign.

But some people – too many people – think that rule doesn’t apply to them. They’re tired of sitting, they want to get their stuff and be the first one off the plane.

Except it doesn’t work like that. So when someone gets up way earlier than they should, the flight attendant will make an announcement on the PA for everyone to remain seated, and the overheads are to remain closed.

And in Turkey, they just made it a crime.

Turkey’s New Rule: Stay Seated or Pay Up

According to the Times, the Washington Post and other news outlets, the new regulation was issued by the country’s aviation authority in early May. It states that air passengers in Turkey who unbuckle their seatbelts and step out into the aisle too early after a plane lands will face fines.

Turkish broadcaster Halk TV reports that the fine for noncompliance is 2,603 ​​lira (about $66 USD).

Airlines and Crew Are Also on the Hook

In fact, it goes in even further, as it also requires airlines to remind passengers to remain seated, even after the seatbelt sign has been switched off, until it’s their turn to leave the aircraft. Flight attendants have been instructed to announce: “Do not stand up or walk down the aisle until it is your turn to exit the aircraft.” According to the aviation authority, the new rule will be enforced by flight attendants, also announcing that any infringement will be reported and result in a fine.

Airlines that fail to comply with these requirements could also face administrative fines.

Not just Turkey

According to GBN, this new rule might eventually go beyond Turkey. Emirates and Qatar Airways, among others, are reportedly considering the adoption of similar measures in an effort to improve the disembarkation process on their flights, as well.

FAFO, indeed.

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