In response to the ongoing crisis in Lebanon, Qantas will operate two non-stop flights between Cyprus and Sydney to assist Australian citizens in returning home. These flights by the national carrier are being arranged at the request of the Australian Government.
Qantas will operate both flights using a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which can accommodate up to 440 passengers. The airline has scheduled the first service to depart Larnaca, Cyprus, next Monday evening (local time). This repatriation flight will then arrive in Sydney on Tuesday. The second planned flight will depart on Wednesday.
Flight Coordination with DFAT
The national carrier will provide these assisted-departure flights free of charge to the Australian Government. Passengers will incur no cost for their travel. Qantas is currently working to secure the necessary approvals for these flights.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is coordinating the registration process for Australians wishing to return home.
Qantas has issued a call for pilots and cabin crew to express their interest in operating these flights. Given the high demand for similar flights from Tel Aviv in October 2023, the airline anticipates a significant number of applicants.
These assisted-departure flights may impact some customers who have existing bookings on Qantas’ international network.
Affected customers will be contacted directly with alternative travel arrangements. Qantas is working to minimize any inconvenience and says it appreciates the understanding of its customers.
Advice from the Australian Government
Australians who wish to leave Lebanon via Cyprus should register with DFAT’s Crisis Portal. If you have already registered, there is no need to do so again.
For urgent consular assistance, Australians can contact the Australian Government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas) or 1300 555 135 (from within Australia).
Conclusion
The UK government has similarly chartered a commercial flight out of Lebanon to help British nationals wanting to leave following escalating violence in the region. The Foreign Secretary announced the move on Monday 30 September.
The UK repatriation flight left Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport this week, on Wednesday 2 October.
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