Turquia
CountryscheduleUpdated: 2025-10-14 22:01
Turkey's aviation sector is a strategic pillar of the national economy, driven by a privileged geographical location that connects Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The primary hub, Istanbul Airport (IST), ranks among the world’s busiest terminals. Regulation of the sector is managed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM - Sivil Havacılık Genel Müdürlüğü), under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, which oversees safety, service standards, and air passenger consumer protection.
Turkey applies the Regulation on Air Passenger Rights (SHY-PASSENGER), which is largely harmonized with EU guidelines (Regulation 261/2004).
- Delays: For delays exceeding 2, 3, or 4 hours (depending on flight distance), airlines must provide assistance (meals, communication, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation).
- Cancellation and Denied Boarding (Overbooking): If a passenger is denied boarding or the flight is cancelled without at least 14 days' prior notice, financial compensation varies based on flight distance:
- Flights up to 1,500 km: 100 Euros (paid in Turkish Lira).
- Domestic flights or flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km: 250–400 Euros.
- Flights over 3,500 km: 600 Euros.
- Exemptions: Compensation is not payable if the delay is caused by "extraordinary circumstances" (severe weather conditions, air traffic control strikes, security issues).
There is no absolute "free carry-on baggage" mandate under federal law; policies are determined by airline fares approved by the SHGM.
- Allowance: Airlines are required to clearly disclose baggage policies at the time of purchase.
- Damaged or Lost Baggage: The rules of the Montreal Convention, to which Turkey is a signatory, apply. Passengers must file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport before leaving the arrivals area. Liability for damage or loss is limited to 1,288 Special Drawing Rights (SDR).
The entry of animals (dogs, cats, birds) is strictly controlled by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Tarım ve Orman Bakanlığı).
- Microchip: Mandatory for identification purposes.
- Certification: An International Veterinary Certificate issued by the country of origin, validated by the relevant Ministry of Agriculture.
- Vaccination: Up-to-date vaccination record, with emphasis on the rabies vaccine (administered between 21 days and 12 months prior to travel).
- Restrictions: Breeds considered dangerous (e.g., Pitbull Terrier, Japanese Tosa) have restricted or prohibited entry. It is highly recommended to consult Turkish customs before issuing your ticket.
- Unaccompanied Minors: Airlines have specific procedures for Unaccompanied Minor (UM) assistance. A travel authorization signed by both parents or legal guardians, with notarized signatures, is required.
- Documentation: Minors under 18 must carry their own passport or equivalent identification document (for citizens of countries with bilateral agreements). When traveling with only one parent, it is recommended to carry a birth certificate and a notarized/apostilled travel authorization (Hague Convention).
Turkey follows strict standards for accessibility in public infrastructure.
- Airport Assistance: Passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) have the right to free assistance, provided the request is made to the airline at least 48 hours before the flight.
- Infrastructure: Modern Turkish airports are equipped with ramps, elevators, and tactile signage in accordance with international universal accessibility guidelines.
- Passport: Must have a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry into Turkey.
- Visas: Many countries (including Brazil) are exempt from visa requirements for tourism for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- e-Visa: Citizens of non-exempt nationalities must apply for an *e-Visa* via the official Turkish government portal prior to travel.
- ETIAS: Turkey is not part of the Schengen Area; therefore, the European Union's ETIAS system does not apply to entry into Turkey. The country maintains its own border control regulations.
- Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM): https://web.shgm.gov.tr/
- Republic of Türkiye Electronic Visa Application System: https://www.evisa.gov.tr/
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey (Visa Information): https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa
- Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Pet Importation): https://www.tarimorman.gov.tr/
- Turkish Government Portal (e-Devlet): https://www.turkiye.gov.tr/
⚠️ Informational only — always confirm with the official source (consulate/authority) before traveling.