Foreign Office Ramps Up Rescue Mission for Britons Stranded Abroad
The UK government is pulling out all the stops to bring home thousands of Britons stuck overseas amid the coronavirus chaos. New charter flights, extra airlines onboard, and fresh travel advice signal a major push to get travellers back safely.
Charter Flights from Hotspots
- Special flights will run from Bolivia, Ecuador, the Philippines, and India, targeting thousands of stranded Brits.
- From next week, flights from Delhi, Goa, and Mumbai will start repatriating UK travellers.
- Travellers should check the latest government travel advice for India before booking.
10 New Airlines Join Govt Scheme
The government’s rescue plan just got a boost with ten more airlines signed up, including heavy hitters like British Airways, Norwegian, TUI, and Ryanair. This takes the total airlines committed to 14, alongside Virgin Atlantic, easyJet, Titan, and Jet2.
Since Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab’s announcement on March 30, over 1,450 Britons have returned on specially arranged charters.
What the Top Brass Say
“Travellers are facing an unprecedented challenge on a global scale, and I know people are understandably desperate to get back to their homes and loved ones,” said Dominic Raab.
“We are committed to supporting Britons getting home either through commercial routes we have helped keep open or through specially chartered flights. More airlines signing up means more flights and fairer deals with more flexibility on tickets and costs.”
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps added, “We continue to work with airlines round the clock to reunite British citizens with their families and loved ones. With more airlines pledging support, this huge operation becomes a little easier, speeding the process and helping ensure more people return home quickly and safely.”
How to Get Home
If you’re a Brit abroad, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office urges you to return now. Where commercial routes remain open, take them. The Department for Transport is coordinating with airlines to bring those with pre-booked tickets back—whether on their original airline or alternative routes.
Passengers are also being offered ticket flexibility, including switching flights between carriers if needed. Keep an eye on official travel advice for the latest updates and booking details.
