Finally Coming Home: Stranded Cruise Passengers to Fly Back from Cuba
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has announced flights to bring guests aboard the Braemar back to the UK. The first flights depart from Havana’s Jose Marti Airport tomorrow evening (Wednesday, 18th March).
Three British Airways Flights Set for Return
British Airways will operate three chartered flights from Havana to London Heathrow Terminal 5. The first plane takes off at 6pm local time (10pm UK time), landing in Heathrow at 6:30am the next day. The last flight is scheduled to arrive by 10:30am UK time.
Separate Flight for Those with Coronavirus Symptoms
Passengers who test positive for coronavirus or show flu-like symptoms, along with their companions, will travel back on a separate flight. This special arrangement was made in cooperation with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Medical staff will be onboard to support them, and further travel needs will be arranged.
All guests on this flight must self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival, following Public Health England guidelines.
Transfers and Support for Returning Passengers
- Coach transfers will be arranged from London Heathrow to Gatwick or Manchester airports for those whose cruise began there.
- Tour operator passengers should wait for direct instructions from their providers.
- Passengers on the main British Airways flights will not be required to self-isolate but are urged to follow the latest Public Health England updates.
- Anyone too unwell to fly will be supported with medical care in Cuba.
Current Status on the Braemar
The Braemar is anchored about five miles off Havana and will dock early tomorrow once all rescue flights arrive in Cuba. Right now, 28 guests are in isolation onboard due to flu-like symptoms, including two confirmed COVID-19 cases detected at their previous stop in Willemstad, Curaçao on 10th March.
Family Support Line Available
Fred. Olsen has set up the Braemar Relative Support Team at their UK HQ to assist worried families. They can be reached at +44 (0) 1473 292350 daily from 8am to 8pm.
