New Rules for Airport Workplaces in 2026: License Renewal and Fire Safety
New Rules for Airport Workplaces in 2026
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has introduced changes to the licensing and inspection procedures for sanitary and hygiene facilities at airports.
On February 17, 2026, the Official Gazette published and enacted the "Regulation on Amendments to the Rules for Opening and Licensing Sanitary and Hygiene Enterprises at Airports Open to Civil Aviation", prepared by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
New License Renewal Requirements
Under the amendments, license holders must submit a renewal application to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation at least one month before the end of the one-year period following the original issue date.
The application must include written confirmation from the airport operator that the activity will continue.
⚠ Important: Late submissions may result in the suspension of the license.
Document Submission Procedure
Individuals and legal entities applying for a license must provide the airport operator with a complete set of declarations and supporting documents.
Once reviewed, the airport operator approves the main document package and forwards it to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation within 15 days.
Steps:
- Submission of a complete set of declarations
- Review and approval by the airport operator
- Forwarding of the approved package to the regulatory authority within 15 days
Enhanced Fire Safety Control
Sanitary facilities will now require fire safety reports from ARFF (Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting) units of airport operators.
This ensures compliance with fire safety measures, emergency response, and risk management procedures under current legislation. Facilities failing to meet fire safety and risk management standards may face restrictions or denial of licenses.
The airport operator will conduct regular checks, involve authorized personnel in inspections, prepare reports, and submit them to the Directorate General upon request. All inspections will be carried out by officially authorized staff.
Additional Regulatory Authority Powers
The Directorate General retains the right to request additional information or documents if deemed necessary for issuing permits for operating sanitary workplaces or providing related services.
These new rules aim to strengthen control, improve safety, and standardize licensing procedures at airports.
Key Changes Summary
Compliance Timeline
Regulation effective: February 17, 2026 | License renewal window: 1 month prior to expiry | Operator processing: 15 days | ARFF reports: Required for all new applications
All airport sanitary and hygiene facility operators must familiarize themselves with these new requirements and ensure timely submission of renewal applications to avoid license suspension. The enhanced fire safety protocols and regular inspection regime represent a significant step toward standardized safety practices across all civil aviation airports in Turkey.
