Turkish Airlines Drops Medical Certificate Requirement for the Parkinson Disease Passengers After Criticism, But New Concerns Raised About its Clarity and Consistency Remain

Published on December 4, 2025

Turkish Airlines has backtracked on a controversial rule obliging passengers with Parkinson’s to provide a medical certificate before a flight. The reversal comes amid an outcry, which grew louder this week after the case of broadcaster Mark Mardell, who lives with Parkinson’s disease, was refused his London-Istanbul flight.

Previously, Turkish Airlines obliged passengers with Parkinson’s to present a doctor’s report, which had to be issued at least 10 days before flying. Such reports were required to include the physician’s credentials and a statement explicitly confirming that the passenger is able to safely travel by air. This requirement, put into place singularly by Turkish Airlines, has received much criticism by passengers and medical organizations alike since no other airline in the world had ever imposed such a rule.

Policy Revision and Ambiguities Remain

Following the public outcry and media coverage of the incident, Turkish Airlines updated the English-language version of its medical policy, removing the specific reference to Parkinson’s disease. The revised policy now states that “sick passengers” must present a doctor’s note confirming there are “no risks of traveling by plane”.

While this move was welcomed by Mark Mardell, he raised concerns over the vague wording of the new policy. “What illnesses count as ‘sick’? Does this mean anyone who’s ever seen a doctor needs a medical note?” Mardell questioned. The lack of clarity in the policy left room for interpretation, creating potential for further confusion for passengers with various health conditions.

Calls for Clearer Guidelines and Staff Training

In response to the change, Lord Blunkett, the former Home Secretary, expressed support for the airline’s decision but called for clearer guidance. “I am extremely pleased Turkish Airlines has recognized their behavior was totally unacceptable. They must clarify the policy change definitively and ensure staff are properly trained,” he said.

Mardell and other advocates have raised concerns about the consistency of the new policy, noting that some non-English versions of the airline’s website still list Parkinson’s disease among conditions requiring medical clearance. Mardell questioned whether frontline staff worldwide had been properly informed of the change and whether passengers with Parkinson’s could feel confident that the airline’s discriminatory practices had ended.

No Medical Justification for Special Clearance

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed that there is no medical justification for singling out Parkinson’s or any other disability for special clearance unless there is a clear clinical risk. This aligns with international aviation guidelines, which emphasize non-discriminatory practices for air travel. The CAA also expressed concerns over the airline’s previous policy, which unnecessarily burdened passengers with Parkinson’s and could have contributed to a sense of exclusion.

Mardell has stated that he plans to meet with CAA officials to discuss next steps in addressing discriminatory policies within the airline industry. “We may be winning, but this isn’t over,” Mardell stated, “Turkish Airlines needs to prove this change applies everywhere, in every language, and for every passenger.”

Travel Impact: A Step Toward Inclusivity in Aviation

The removal of the Parkinson’s-specific medical certificate requirement by Turkish Airlines has important implications for the travel industry, particularly for passengers with disabilities. The change signals a growing recognition of the need for inclusive travel policies that do not discriminate against people with health conditions. This decision may encourage other airlines to reassess their medical clearance protocols, potentially leading to more standardized, accessible travel experiences for passengers with chronic conditions.

For travelers with Parkinson’s disease and other health conditions, this shift represents a step toward more equitable air travel. It ensures that individuals can travel without being burdened by unnecessary medical requirements, thus promoting greater independence and freedom for people with disabilities. The travel impact extends beyond just the passengers; it encourages airlines to refine their policies, ensuring that they are inclusive, transparent, and aligned with global standards. As a result, Turkish Airlines’ decision could have a ripple effect throughout the aviation industry, pushing for more universal access to air travel, which benefits not only passengers with medical conditions but also those who may have faced other forms of discrimination or inconvenience in the past.

A Call for Transparency and Accountability

It is a good thing that Turkish Airlines removed the controversial rule, but it still has to work on how it should adapt its policies in such a way that passengers are not treated in an unfair manner due to their health conditions. Indeed, restoring passenger confidence and an assurance that these events will never happen again depend on the airline’s openness and consistency in applying the updated policies.

Clear communication, proper training of the staff, and regular audits are required to guarantee compliance with the new standards. Till then, passengers like Mark Mardell will continue to raise their voices for a more inclusive and fair travel experience for all. This travel impact can spur industry-wide change in making air travel more accessible and equitable for a future whereby persons with Parkinson’s and other similar conditions can travel confidently and with dignity.

Image Source: Turkish Airlines