Nepal Quake: RAAF To Pluck Stranded Australians Out Of Kathmandu

Australia has sent two huge Royal Australian Air Force aircraft to pluck stranded nationals out of earthquake-ravaged Kathmandu in Nepal. The two C-17As had left Queensland’s Amberley Base on Wednesday. It carried 15 tonnes of Australian aid that included 2.5 tonnes of wool blankets, tarpaulins and 80,000 water purification tablets, as well as over six tonnes of health supplies.

Defence Minister Kevin Andrews said in a statement a specialist medical evacuation team will be on board each aircraft. They will check and ensure that stranded Australian citizens or other approved foreign nationals can board the C-17s. “Evacuation flights will continue between Kathmandu and Bangkok until they are no longer required.”

On Thursday, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade called on Australians in Nepal wishing to fly on Australian Defence Force aircraft flights to register with DFAT’s 24 hour Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra so they can immediately be attended to. The centre’s number is +61 2 6261 3305. They can also register at +977 98510 23248 or by email to ert.kathmandu@dfat.gov.au. DFAT said priority will go to the elderly, the sick and families with young children. The flights being offered are only up to Bangkok. Australians will have to be responsible for their travel home from there.

Foreign Minister Julie Bishop earlier advised Australians to not just rely on the ADF flights and as much as possible, “pursue all available commercial flight options to leave the country.” While the Kathmandu international airport is open, the arrival and departure of aircraft, both chartered as well as those carrying relief supplies, have been very much affected, resulting to eventual lengthy delays.

DFAT said in a statement on its website that flights are being delayed or cancelled due to weather and congestion. Priority is likewise being given to aid flights and rescue helicopters.

Apart from the flights, the Australian Defence Force will likewise deploy additional specialist personnel to provide support to embassy staff in Kathmandu.

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