Air Serbia successfully conducted a repatriation flight from Beirut to Belgrade, evacuating Serbian citizens amid escalating tensions in Lebanon. The flight, organized by the Serbian government, transported a total of 88 passengers, including adults and infants, ensuring their safe return home.
Key Takeaways
- Air Serbia operated flight JU9071 from Beirut to Belgrade.
- The flight evacuated 85 Serbian citizens and 3 infants, along with some foreign nationals.
- The operation was coordinated by the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
- This marks a continuation of Air Serbia’s efforts to assist citizens during international crises.
Background of the Evacuation
The repatriation flight was necessitated by the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon, prompting the Serbian government to advise its citizens to leave the country. Serbia’s Ambassador to Lebanon, Milan Trojanović, reported that approximately half of the Serbian nationals in Lebanon chose to remain for personal or business reasons. The flight utilized an Airbus A319 aircraft, which provided comfort to evacuees, including the transportation of pets.
Details of the Flight
- Flight Number: JU9071
- Aircraft: Airbus A319
- Departure: Rafic Hariri International Airport, Beirut
- Arrival: Nikola Tesla Airport, Belgrade
- Total Passengers: 88 (85 adults, 3 infants)
The flight departed Beirut and landed in Belgrade at approximately 2:30 PM local time. The passenger list was compiled by the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ensuring that those in need of evacuation were prioritized.
International Context
The evacuation is part of a broader trend, as many countries have initiated repatriation efforts for their citizens in Lebanon due to the ongoing conflict. Countries like Australia, Belgium, Brazil, and Canada have organized similar flights, highlighting the urgency of the situation. The Lebanese flag carrier, Middle East Airlines, continues to operate limited flights, but many foreign airlines have suspended their services to and from the country.
Conclusion
Air Serbia’s repatriation flight underscores the airline’s commitment to supporting its citizens during times of crisis. As tensions in Lebanon continue to escalate, the Serbian government remains vigilant in ensuring the safety of its nationals abroad. The successful operation of flight JU9071 is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Serbian government and Air Serbia in addressing the needs of their citizens during challenging times.
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