UK to operate special flights from Dhaka for British citizens

The United Kingdom (UK) has decided to operate four special flights from Dhaka to London for British tourists, short term visitors and their direct dependants to return to the UK from Tuesday (April 21-26 ).

British visitors currently in Sylhet will also have the option of booking a domestic transfer from Sylhet to Dhaka ahead of each of these flights, said the British  government, reports United News of Bangladesh.

Up to 150,000 British nationals visit Bangladesh every year.There are currently no commercial options available to return to the UK from Banglades due to flight restrictions announced by the Government of Bangladesh.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has extended the suspension of its domestic and international flights, including from the UK until April 30.

China Southern and US Bangla airlines are still operating flights to China but these are for Chinese nationals only.

The cost of these flights is £600 per person whether departing from Sylhet or Dhaka, according to the latest travel advisory.

To be eligible to take these flights, one must be normally resident in the UK. Eligibility will be checked before tickets are issued.

Bookings for each flight will close 24 hours before the flight is scheduled to depart and tickets will not be on sale at the airport.

When travelling to Dhaka or Sylhet Airport, all must carry hard copies of flight confirmation and passports easily to hand.

"Once your booking is confirmed, you will also be issued with an official British High Commission document to show the authorities at any check points should that be necessary," reads the travel advice.

The British High Commission Dhaka is in contact with airlines, the Bangladesh authorities and other governments to make sure commercial options for returning to the UK are also available as soon as possible.

Cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) have been confirmed in Bangladesh.

The Bangladeshi authorities have introduced measures to limit the spread of the virus including widespread closures of shops and businesses.

Earlier the US and thr European citizens and citizens of other countries left Dhaka on a voluntary basis to reunite with their families.

Kamruzzaman