Travelling mistakes happen, but few land you in international headlines. That’s exactly what happened to a Russian tourist in Turkey, after a moment of casual absent-mindedness at the airport turned into an unusual security incident.
What exactly happened?
The 35-year-old woman arrived at Alanya Airport for what should have been a routine entry process. But while bending down to pick up a dropped sweater, she briefly held her passport between her lips. What seemed harmless instantly raised red flags.
According to Nexta, security officers stopped her twice at the checkpoint, pulled her aside for questioning, and eventually denied her entry — issuing a formal warning for "desecrating a state symbol."
What Alanya Airport reminds passengers
The airport has a strict and detailed security code in place. According to its official guidelines:
Passengers must personally pack and supervise their luggage.
Any suspicious activity or unattended items must be reported immediately.
Travellers should not accept packages from strangers.
Full cooperation with security checks is mandatory.
Any unlawful interference with airport or aircraft operations can invite serious consequences.
For clarity on prohibited items in sterile areas or on flights, passengers are advised to consult their airline directly.
While holding a passport in one’s mouth is not a common violation, officials reportedly considered it “disrespectful” and therefore unacceptable under their strict protocol.
Representative image
What’s banned at Turkish airports?
Turkey also maintains an extensive list of prohibited or restricted items. As per the official website guidelines, these include:
Liquids over 100 ml (including perfumes, colognes, alcohol-based medicines)
Toy guns and gun-shaped lighters
Certain lithium batteries and loose battery packs
Strong odour-emitting foods like durian
Pointed objects such as pocket knives
Self-defence tools, including pepper spray and tasers
Fuel-powered equipment, ammunition, and flammable items
Some items are allowed only in checked baggage, others only in cabin bags, and many are banned altogether.
