New Zealand is stepping up contingency planning for a potential evacuation of its citizens from the Middle East, with a C-130J Hercules aircraft departing Auckland this morning and another being redeployed from South Korea.
New Zealand Prepares for Possible Evacuations
Defence Minister Judith Collins said the New Zealand Defence Force has been conducting “extensive” preparation work as the situation in the region is described as “dangerous and complex.” Personnel and aircraft may need to remain deployed for several weeks if an evacuation is triggered.
Collins, speaking from Auckland’s Whenuapai Airbase, would not confirm specific routes or operating bases for the aircraft, citing operational sensitivities.
New Zealanders registered on SafeTravel in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates have been contacted by officials and asked about their plans and current circumstances.
The recently purchased C-130 Hercules aircraft are “extremely versatile” and well-equipped for this type of operation, according to RNZAF Wing Commander Brad Scott. He noted the aircraft has been used in similar scenarios in the past, including in the wider Pacific and during events like Cyclone Gabrielle.
It will take a few days for the aircraft to reach the region.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters described the events in the Middle East as “fast-moving, dangerous and complex,” stating the primary focus is assisting New Zealanders in the region to the extent possible.
The government is preparing for potential civilian evacuations but cannot confirm when or how they might occur.
All New Zealanders in the Middle East are urged to register on SafeTravel.
Emirates Resumes Full New Zealand Flight Schedule
Emirates has resumed its full New Zealand network of flights as airspace in the Middle East begins to reopen. Inbound and outbound services between Christchurch and Dubai have resumed today.
Flights had been disrupted by drone and missile strikes, but the airline anticipates a return to a 100% network within days, subject to airspace availability and operational requirements. Passengers are advised to only go to airports with confirmed bookings, as the airline prioritizes those with previously disrupted travel.
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