In a continuing effort to bring Australians home from Lebanon, Qantas is now set to operate a third non-stop flight from Cyprus to Sydney. This flight, commissioned by the Australian Government, aims to repatriate up to 220 passengers.
Qantas plans to depart Larnaca, Cyprus on Friday evening local time with the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, operating as flight ASY1280. Passengers can expect to touch down in Sydney on Saturday evening.
Longest Flight in Qantas’ History
This third flight addition follows the successful completion of the first evacuation flight, ASY1258. A Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, registered VH-ZNC, operated the flight. The first repatriation flight landed in Sydney on Tuesday October 8, bringing 220 passengers safely home.
The flight covers an impressive distance of about 15,890km. This slightly exceeds the Perth to London service currently operated by the national carrier.
With a flight time of 16 hours and 30 minutes, Sydney to Larnaca becomes the longest flight in Qantas’ network history.
To ensure the success of this long-haul operation, Qantas has deployed a team of four pilots and ten cabin crew members. Dedicated ground personnel, medical staff, and engineers support the flight crew.
The second special assistance flight, ASY1270, will depart Larnaca on Wednesday evening local time, with an anticipated arrival in Australia on Thursday evening.
Summary
For Australians seeking to return home, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) is managing the registration process. It’s important to note that this flight, like its predecessors, comes at no cost to passengers. Qantas is operating the service free of charge on behalf of the Australian Government.
Upon arrival in Australia, Qantas will go the extra mile by flying passengers to their nearest domestic airport served by the airline, again at no additional cost.
For Australians still in Lebanon seeking to leave via Cyprus, the Australian government advises registration through DFAT’s Crisis Portal. Those who have already registered need not do so again. In case of urgent consular assistance, Australians can reach out to the government’s 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre.
The second special assistance flight, ASY1270, is now expected to depart Larnaca on Wednesday evening local time.
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