For those of you planning to fly to Turkey soon, there’s an important update you need to know: the Turkish government has now implemented strict rules for passengers who stand up too early before the plane has come to a complete stop on the runway.
Want to know how much the fine is? Read the full information below!
Understanding the Term “Aisle Lice” in the Aviation World
Passengers who stand up too early on a plane, even before it has come to a complete stop on the runway, have a special nickname—“Aisle Lice.” This term comes from the word “aisle,” referring to the walkway inside the plane, and “lice,” meaning parasites.
The term “Aisle Lice” is used to describe the behavior of passengers who frequently stand, walk, or linger in the aisle during the flight. More specifically, it often refers to impatient passengers who stand up before the appropriate time, especially when the plane has not yet landed or has not completely stopped at the gate.
This kind of behavior can block the way for other passengers and make the cabin atmosphere less comfortable. Additionally, it disrupts the flight attendants as they carry out their duties, such as serving food or delivering safety instructions.
Due to these impacts, several countries, including Turkey, have started enforcing strict regulations that prohibit passengers from standing up too early to ensure safety and comfort during the flight.
Sanctions for Passengers Who Violate the Rule
The Turkish Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has officially implemented a new rule prohibiting airplane passengers from standing or unfastening their seatbelts before the aircraft has completely stopped on the runway. This policy was introduced to enhance safety and order during the landing process and passenger disembarkation.
Passengers who violate this rule will be subject to an administrative fine of up to 2,603 Turkish lira (around Rp1,100,000 or $67). This policy also aims to reduce the risk of accidents caused by passengers who rush to stand and move inside the cabin when it is not yet safe to do so.
The regulation has received mixed reactions from the public and the aviation industry, with some supporting the move in the name of safety, while others consider it to be overly strict.
The Background Behind the Rule
The regulation banning passengers from standing too early on planes was introduced as a preventive measure in response to growing safety concerns during the landing and disembarkation process.
According to a letter published by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in Turkey, at the beginning of 2025, the country recorded a significant increase in complaints about passengers ignoring crew instructions by standing up and leaving their seats while the seatbelt sign was still on.
Furthermore, passengers were often seen standing in the aisles and opening the overhead luggage compartments before the plane had come to a full stop on the runway.
Such behavior not only disrupts the flight crew’s service operations but also increases the risk of accidents and injuries during landing. As a result, strict rules and fines have been implemented to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers and to maintain an orderly and secure flight environment.
