Things seem to be unstable in Turkey at the moment, with an attempted coupé by the military.
The situation appears to be very fluid – although for travellers, Istanbul Ataturk and Ankara Airports are closed.
Turkey – Data – OpenStreetMaps
You can follow the situation through most of the major press channels (BBC, CNN, Al Jazeria, The Guardian, etc.
Advice is flowing from various agencies:
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office has released advice according to this tweet:
#Turkey Aware of developments in Turkey. Until the situation becomes clearer, we advise you to avoid public places https://t.co/Ttogte6VSc
— FCO travel advice (@FCOtravel) July 15, 2016
They state:
We are aware of the current developments in Turkey. We are urgently seeking more information. Until the situation becomes clearer, we advise you to avoid public places and remain vigilant
The US State Department has noted:
New Emergency Message for US citizens in #Turkey pic.twitter.com/De1c20pmrz
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) July 15, 2016
They advise gathering in public areas, and to contact family and friends to let them know you are safe. US Citizens are NOT advised to head to the US Embassy.
A release by the US State Department has been made:
Statement by Secretary of State @JohnKerry on the situation in #Turkey pic.twitter.com/c32Pb2xTgG
— Department of State (@StateDept) July 15, 2016
As Istanbul Ataturk and Ankara Airports are closed, flights are diverting and avoiding the area. Airlines are issuing waivers and changes – check with your airline. If you are flying with Turkish Airlines – please allow extra time in contacting them. They’re probably more in the dark than anyone else.
A few known advisories:
Qatar Airways:
— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) July 15, 2016
Heathrow Airport:
All airline contact details can be found on our website here: https://t.co/qg6o35aOUJ (2/2)
— Heathrow Airport (@HeathrowAirport) July 15, 2016
Its goes without saying, this is a fast-moving and changing situation.
If you are in Turkey, for now – seek shelter and keep away from public disturbances. If you’re flying to or through Turkey, start making new plans now.
