As the Middle East plunges into war, governments globally are scrambling to repatriate their citizens from the region before the situation worsens. Australia is at the forefront, taking immediate steps to evacuate Australians residing in Lebanon. On Friday, the Australian Government announced a collaboration with airlines, including Qantas, to provide free flights for those seeking to leave Lebanon, with vulnerable citizens prioritized.

Free Flights from Beirut to Cyprus and Sydney

The Australian Government has orchestrated a two-part rescue mission to ensure the safe return of its citizens from Lebanon. This mission begins with an initial flight from Beirut to Larnaca, Cyprus, followed by a Qantas-operated journey from Larnaca to Sydney. Both flights will be free of charge for eligible Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members with the right of entry into Australia. Vulnerable passengers will receive priority for these flights.

Penny Wong, Australia’s Foreign Minister, revealed that two government-backed charter flights are planned, capable of carrying up to 500 passengers from Beirut to Larnaca. Just last night, 41 Australians boarded a Canadian-assisted departure flight after the Australian Government secured seats on the aircraft.

Future flights from Beirut are anticipated depending on demand, though all operations hinge on the airport remaining open and other logistical factors. In a direct appeal to Australians still in Lebanon, the government urged citizens to leave as soon as possible, stressing the uncertainty of continued flights:
“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.”

The Role of Qantas in the Rescue Mission

Qantas has been crucial in providing a safe passage home. At around 08:00 UTC on Friday, the airline announced it would conduct two nonstop flights between Larnaca, Cyprus, and Sydney, Australia. These flights will utilize the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, known for its long-range capabilities, allowing Qantas to transport up to 440 Australians out of Lebanon and back to safety.

The first flight from Larnaca is scheduled to depart on Monday, October 7, with its arrival at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport set for Tuesday morning. If conditions at Beirut Airport allow, a second Dreamliner will depart for Sydney on Wednesday, October 9.

Qantas has a history of operating such mercy flights for Australians trapped in crisis zones, offering these services free of charge under the coordination of the Australian Government. This time, Qantas is withdrawing two Dreamliners from scheduled commercial services at short notice to meet the urgent demand. The airline is actively working with the government to obtain the required regulatory clearances for the flights and to ensure a smooth operation.

While the airline is dedicated to aiding this government operation, there will be some disruption to its regular commercial services. Qantas has already started contacting passengers affected by the withdrawal of aircraft from their scheduled routes and is working on alternative travel arrangements to minimize the inconvenience.

Government Registration Required

For Australians seeking to leave Lebanon, it is crucial to understand that registration for these flights is being handled by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), not Qantas. Citizens are required to register their intent to leave via the DFAT Crisis Portal on the government’s website. Attempting to secure a seat directly through Qantas will only lead to frustration, as all seat allocations and priorities are managed by the government.