As part of the Albanese Government’s ongoing work to assist Australians seeking to depart Lebanon, two Government-supported charter flights carrying up to 500 passengers will depart Beirut Airport tomorrow for Larnaca, Cyprus.
This continues the Australian Government’s work with partners and commercial airlines, which has seen seats secured on several flights this week, including a Canadian assisted-departure flight last night which had 41 Australians on board.
Further flights are planned for subsequent days and will be subject to demand.
Operation of the Australian Government-supported charter flights is subject to the airport in Beirut remaining open and other operational constraints.
Onward travel to Australia is being arranged for those landing in Cyprus. Qantas has confirmed two flights from Cyprus to Sydney and we are grateful for their assistance. We are working with other airlines to confirm additional flights.
These flights will be free-of-charge for those eligible Australians, permanent residents and their immediate family members with a right of entry to Australia. Vulnerable passengers will be prioritised.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade will be in contact with registered Australians to facilitate their departure and will continue to provide updates to registered Australians.
Australians in Lebanon who wish to leave should ensure they are registered via DFAT’s Crisis Portal or by calling the Australian Government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305.
Our message to Australians in Lebanon remains – now is the time to leave. Please take the first flight option that is available. There is no guarantee of preferred flights or that these flights will continue.
Media note: Images from last night’s flight are available via DFAT’s Media Library.