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Parkinson's Patient Denied Flight by Turkish Airlines
30 Nov, 2025
Summary
- A former BBC presenter was denied boarding by Turkish Airlines due to Parkinson's.
- The airline demanded a doctor's letter stating he was fit to fly.
- He was left stranded for seven hours at Istanbul Airport alone.
Former BBC presenter Mark Mardell experienced a distressing incident at Istanbul Airport when Turkish Airlines barred him from boarding his flight to London Gatwick. The airline required a doctor's letter to verify his fitness to fly, citing his Parkinson's disease diagnosis.
Mardell, who has had Parkinson's for three years, was left alone at the airport for seven hours. He expressed his deep humiliation and frustration, labeling the airline's policy as prejudiced and antiquated. He noted the irony of the situation, as he had flown into Turkey without issue.
The Civil Aviation Authority stated that such a policy is unlawful, though they lack jurisdiction over non-UK/EU carriers. After arranging a new flight with another airline the following day, Mardell received a call from Turkish Airlines offering a refund.
