Unauthorized Photography of My Passport and Denial of Boarding by Turkish Airlines
Dear Sir/Madam,
On May 19, 2024, while waiting at the boarding gate (Gate F7B) at Istanbul Airport for Turkish Airlines' Istanbul-Sarajevo flight (flight number TK1021, scheduled at 07:25), I experienced a distressing and rights-violating situation that I wish to share with you and request necessary actions to be taken.
I am a university student in Sarajevo and after passing through customs control smoothly with my Turkish passport, I was informed by the ground staff member A**** D**** at the boarding gate that I would not be allowed to board the flight. Despite explaining that my passport expires on August 18, 2024, and I still had 91 days left, the staff insisted that my passport had only 89 days remaining and refused to let me board. This was a mistake as it was in compliance with the 90+1 day rule.
During this time, the staff member learned that I also hold a French passport and requested it, then took a photograph of it without any permission. He mentioned that he shared this photo in a WhatsApp group and discussed it with the Bosnian police. Despite informing him that he could not share my personal data without consent, the staff member disregarded this and continued to deny me boarding. This situation caused me significant psychological distress and stress.
Subsequently, another staff member arrived, explained the situation, and allowed me to board, but also took a photograph of my passport. Upon arriving in Bosnia, I entered the country without any issues using my Turkish passport.
Due to my trust and loyalty to Turkish Airlines, I always prefer this airline. We are satisfied with the friendly and understanding service of your staff, and my family and I enjoy using Turkish Airlines. However, this negative experience has undermined my trust.
Regarding this incident:
1. The unauthorized photographing of my passport by staff member A**** D**** and sharing these photos with unknown individuals,
2. The unjustified refusal to let me board the flight,
3. The psychological distress and victimization I experienced,
I request that necessary investigations be conducted and appropriate actions be taken against those responsible. Additionally, I seek protection of my legal rights due to the unauthorized sharing of my personal data and request to be informed about this matter. I also wish to state that I will initiate legal proceedings regarding this issue.
I kindly request that necessary actions be taken and that I receive a prompt response.
Sincerely,
E**** Y*****
