New Aviation Rule Targets Impatient Flyers Disembarking Too Early

Starting immediately, travelers arriving in Turkey who stand up before their plane has fully stopped could face a £50 ($70) fine, under new regulations aimed at improving passenger safety and flight discipline.

The Turkish Civil Aviation Authority has introduced this rule to stop the growing trend of passengers unbuckling seatbelts and crowding the aisle as soon as the plane lands. Under the new regulation, passengers must stay seated until the aircraft reaches its final parking position and it's their row’s turn to exit.

Airlines are now required to make clear announcements reminding passengers to stay seated, even after the seatbelt sign is turned off. Any violations will be reported to aviation authorities, who will impose the penalty.

Turkish Airlines, which serves over 130 countries, is already enforcing the policy. Major international carriers such as Emirates and Qatar Airways are also reportedly considering adopting similar rules for flights to and from Turkey.

This move comes as part of a broader industry effort to reduce disruptive behavior during boarding and deplaning. Airlines have also been addressing the issue of so-called "gate lice" — passengers who crowd the gate area before their group is called.

American Airlines is currently testing new boarding pass scanning technology in select U.S. airports (Albuquerque, Tucson, and Washington) to block early boarders. If a passenger attempts to board before their group is called, the system triggers an alarm and notifies gate agents.

The goal of these measures is to create a safer, smoother, and more respectful travel experience for all flyers.