British tourists planning to visit Turkey have been given an urgent travel warning after the terrorist attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries near the country’s capital, Ankara.
The terrifying incident, which killed five people and injured several more, occurred on October 23 at a facility in Kahramankazan, approximately 40km northwest of central Ankara.
The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has warned that higher security measures have been implemented in the wake of the attack. This means travellers may face longer waiting times at airports. which could result in holiday chaos if people miss their flights and are left stranded.
A statement by the FCDO read: “On October 23 there was a terrorist attack on Turkish Aerospace Industries’ facility in Kahramankazan, 40km northwest of central Ankara, which resulted in five deaths and 22 injuries, as well as the deaths of the two assailants.
“While the incident has ended, the response is ongoing, including increased security measures at Turkish airports, which means security checks will take longer than normal.
“If you are in the area near the attack, follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor local media.”
Travellers near the area of the attack have been urged to follow guidance from local authorities. Visitors have also been reminded it is crucial to stay informed by monitoring local media for updates.
Residents and visitors should remain vigilant and adhere to any safety instructions issued in response to the incident.
These precautions are part of the broader effort to ensure public safety in the wake of the incident.
Elsewhere on the FCDO website, a statement cautioned holidaymakers that there is currently a high risk of terrorism in the country.
The FCDO stated: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.
“Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Most terrorist attacks have occurred in southeast Turkey, Ankara and Istanbul.
“You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities. See Regional risks for details about the areas in south-east Turkey where FCDO advises against travel.”
