The first chartered repatriation flight bringing Australians back from Israel landed in Sydney earlier today.
The chartered Qatar Airways flight QR7424, operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, landed around 6.00pm local time at Sydney Airport carrying 222 people, having departed from Dubai earlier in the day.
It is the first of three chartered repatriation flights organised by the Australian Government. A second chartered flight will leave from London later tonight and arrive at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) around 7pm local time on Wednesday 18 October.
Operation BEECH
The Australian Government has successfully coordinated the evacuation of individuals from Israel to the United Arab Emirates. This rescue mission was executed utilizing two Royal Australian Air Force flights – a KC-30A and a C-17A Globemaster III – along with a Government-supported private charter.
The operation, named Operation BEECH, was set into motion following the commencement of Government assisted-departure flights from Tel Aviv on October 13, 2023.
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Notably, the inaugural flight on October 13 was operated by Qantas, marking the beginning of a series of coordinated rescue missions.
To date, more than 400 Australians have been airlifted from Israel through these Government-supported flights.
A Lifeline Amidst Uncertainty
Given the rapidly changing security landscape, the Australian Government remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens.
As part of these efforts, they are actively planning additional flights departing from Tel Aviv to Dubai for those Australians who wish to leave the region. The message is clear – if you are an Australian wanting to leave, seize these opportunities.
In addition to providing exit options from Israel, the Australian Government has secured flights for onward travel to Australia for Australians arriving in Dubai.
This thoughtful consideration demonstrates the commitment to support citizens throughout the entire journey to safety.
Israel – Ongoing Evaluations
The situation in the region remains highly challenging and continues to evolve. As a result, the Australian Government is keeping an eye on developments and assessing whether further assisted-departure flights are required.
This flexibility ensures that the response can adapt to the ever-changing circumstances on the ground.
Since Thursday, Services Australia has been actively involved in the response to this developing crisis. Experienced staff are diligently handling consular calls on behalf of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Support Beyond Flights
Services Australia is working closely with DFAT to identify additional services that may be required as the situation unfolds over the coming days and weeks.
This includes considering avenues for providing support from social workers if the need arises. The welfare and well-being of Australians during this challenging period is a top priority.
Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. Richard Marles MP said: “The safety of Australians impacted by this conflict is paramount for the Australian Government. The activation of two Defence aircraft provides critical options for Australia as the conflict in Israel continues to evolve.”
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon. Penny Wong confirmed that more than 1,200 Australians previously registered have now left Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including more than 400 Australians and their families on four Australian Government assisted-departure flights.
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