SHGM

The Sivil Havacılık Genel Müdürlüğü (SHGM), or the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of Turkey, is the state authority under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure responsible for the regulation, oversight, and control of civil aviation activities within Turkish territory. Its jurisdiction covers all Turkish airports, airlines registered in Turkey (such as Turkish Airlines and Pegasus), and flight operations utilizing the country's airspace. The agency ensures compliance with international standards established by ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) and EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), reflecting Turkey’s strategic alignment with European regulations.

Official changes from this authority that affect passengers appear in this guide's updates as they are published. Each one is checked against the official document before it goes live.

In Turkey, each airline sets the baggage allowance for each fare:

• Price: before paying, check the total price and what the fare includes, including baggage fees.
• Hand baggage: the permitted size and weight vary by airline (many use 55 x 40 x 23 cm); check before you buy.
• Loss/damage: on international flights the Montreal Convention, ratified by Turkey, applies; file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport before leaving the arrivals area.

Animal transport follows each airline's policy and Turkish health rules:

• Cabin vs. Hold: Animals up to 8kg (including the carrier) are generally permitted in the cabin. Pets exceeding this weight must be transported in the pressurized cargo hold.
• Documentation: Submission of a Veterinary Health Certificate, the animal's passport, and proof of up-to-date rabies vaccination is mandatory.
• Restrictions: breeds considered dangerous or large guard dogs may face transport restrictions on passenger flights and need to travel with cargo carriers. Book the animal's space in advance (many airlines ask for at least 48 hours).

• Seats: ask for seats together when booking; whether seat selection is charged depends on the airline and the fare.
• Strollers: many airlines take folding strollers to the aircraft door free of charge; check your airline's policy.
• Assistance: many airlines give boarding priority to families with babies and offer bassinets on long flights, subject to availability and advance booking.

SHGM regulations for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM) align with international standards:

• Requesting Assistance: Requests for assistance (wheelchairs, attendants, medical equipment) must be made at least 48 hours before departure.
• MEDIF: For passengers with chronic medical conditions or those requiring on-board oxygen, the Medical Information Form (MEDIF) is mandatory and must be validated by the airline.
• Priority: Turkish airports are required to provide assistance throughout the entire journey, from the point of vehicle drop-off at the airport to the passenger's seat on the aircraft, at no cost to the passenger.

• SHGM Official Portal: https://shgm.gov.tr/
• Passenger Rights (SHY-PASSENGER Regulation): https://web.shgm.gov.tr/doc4/shy-passenger.pdf
• Turkish Aeronautical Legislation (Database): https://web.shgm.gov.tr/en/mevzuat/2155-index
• Information for passengers (SHGM): https://web.shgm.gov.tr/en/size-ozel/241-yolcu