Political unrest is not often a consideration during the risk assessment for upcoming trips. Even less likely is the possibility of a military led violent coup. But the students and staff of Arthur Terry School Sutton Coldfield, found themselves stranded in Ataturk Airport Istanbul under just these conditions.
The world was stunned by the images coming out of Turkey on the night of the 15th July, as a wing of the military attempted to stage a coup to depose the increasingly autocratic leadership of President Erdogan. Fighter jets flew low of Ankara bombing the principle parliament building and the Bosporus Bridge in Istanbul was occupied by the army. Gun fire was exchanged at the major inroads into both cities and the ‘peace council’ announced across television networks that it was now in control and that the constitution would be rewritten. President Erdogan via a face time call on television, called for the people to rise up against a ‘black stain’ on democracy and at sites such as the Bosporus Bridge tanks were overwhelmed and the military quickly surrendered. The coup was over by early Saturday morning and almost 3000 military personnel were taken into custody. The coup saw over 150 people killed.
Head Teachers Neil Warner and Richard Gill thanked parents for their ‘tremendous support’ and stated that it was ‘great to know that many of you have had direct contact with your sons/daughters and know that they are safe, well cared for and in good spirits.’ Turkish Airlines resumed flights out of Istanbul swiftly, under the instruction of President Erdogan himself. The students were safely boarded on a flight to South Africa on Sunday night. This follows the foreign office issuing a statement that the situation in Turkey ‘appeared to be calming.’
Arthur Terry School made contact with the staff in Turkey quickly in order to establish the true nature of the situation and report it accurately back to the parents. The parents were able to be reassured and could make ready contact with their children. The group remained in the controlled environment of the airport under the protection of a representative of the British Embassy. The staff in control remained calm and collected. Events such as this cannot be anticipated and the key is to respond calmly and safely, drawing on the correct resources and keeping contacts well informed and children reassured.
Handsam can help you research Turkey thoroughly through our country specific trip guidance. Or draw on our trip planning system to ensure you have effective contingency plans for your trip.
