UK Launches First Seven Charter Flights to Evacuate Britons from India
The UK Government has announced the first batch of seven charter flights to bring British nationals stranded in India back home.
Flight Schedule and Booking Details
- Goa: 8, 10 and 12 April
- Mumbai: 9 and 11 April
- New Delhi: 9 and 11 April
British travellers must visit the booking portals for their respective cities to reserve seats. Further flights from other Indian cities will be announced soon.
Officials Promise Swift Support Amid Travel Chaos
Acting High Commissioner Jan Thompson: “We know how worrying the past few weeks have been for British nationals in India. I hope this announcement will bring relief, especially to those in greatest need.”
“Due to the large numbers involved, this operation is massive. We’re working closely with Indian authorities to ensure as many people as possible can return safely.”
Foreign Office Minister Lord Tariq Ahmad: “The UK is working round the clock to support British travellers desperate to get home. These first charter flights will provide vital relief, particularly for the most vulnerable.”
Who Can Travel and What You Need to Know
- Flights are for UK residents and their direct dependants.
- Movement within India is heavily restricted; travellers must book flights departing from their current state.
- A number of seats are reserved for vulnerable individuals who will be contacted directly.
- Details on luggage allowance, flight costs, and carriers are available on the booking portals.
The UK continues to work with partners to secure additional seats on other countries’ flights. On 4 April, 113 vulnerable Britons left Goa on an Irish flight.
An estimated 35,000 British nationals remain in India, with over 20,000 eager to return home immediately.
Government Support and Contact Info
The UK Government has pledged up to £75 million to fund special charter flights amid global travel restrictions. British nationals in India should follow official travel advice and monitor UK consular social media channels for updates.
If you need immediate assistance, contact the British High Commission at:
- New Delhi: +91 (11) 2419 2100
- Chennai: +91 (44) 4219 2151
- Mumbai: +91 (22) 6650 2222
