Major Wireless Carriers Offering Free Calls, Texts To Turkey After Istanbul Airport Attack

In the wake of a suspected terrorist attack at Istanbul’s airport that killed 41 people and wounded 239 more, the U.S. four major wireless carriers are offering to connect customers with their loved ones in Turkey for free.

Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint all announced that they’ll be waiving fees and charges for texts and calls between the US.

Verizon: Wireless users won’t rack up charges for texts or international long distance calls originating from the U.S. to Turkey through June 29. In addition, home wireline telephone customers can make free calls to Turkey on those days as well.

“More than 170,000 Verizon employees worldwide extend condolences to all our friends and family in Turkey,” the company said.

AT&T: AT&T will waive or credit charges incurred for consumer or business calls placed by AT&T’s customers from the U.S. to Turkey between June 28, 2016 to June 30, 2016 (in the local time zone). That includes “landline, texting, and mobility (Postpaid and GoPhone) calls.”

“Our thoughts are with the people of Istanbul and our customers who have friends and family there,” the company said.

T-Mobile: T-Mobile is offering free texts and calls from the U.S. to Turkey for all T-Mobile Simple Choice prepaid and postpaid customers, as well as customers of MetroPCS, GoSmart Mobile, and Walmart Family Mobile, between June 28 and July 5.

“Today’s attack in Istanbul is both tragic and horrifying,” said John Legere, president and CEO of T-Mobile. “Our hearts are with everyone affected by this senseless act.”

Sprint: Sprint is waiving all international long distance, roaming and SMS charges to and from Turkey for all Sprint, Boost and Virgin Mobile customers, through July 5.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those personally affected during this difficult time,” said Sprint CEO Marcelo Claure. “We want to do everything we can to show our support and heartfelt sympathy to all Sprint, Boost Mobile, and Virgin Mobile customers with family and friends in the region.”

by Mary Beth Quirk via Consumerist