SINGAPORE: Singapore will deploy a Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) aircraft to Saudi Arabia this week to evacuate Singaporeans stranded due to the war in the Middle East.
This is due to the urgent need of Singaporeans in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia for assisted departure as well as limited flights from the Gulf region, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) on Monday (Mar 9).
“Given the lack of feasible commercial options in the region, the Singapore government will deploy a RSAF A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft for the assisted departure of Singaporeans from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Mar 10,” they said.
“A second flight from Saudi Arabia is being planned for Mar 12.”
In response to CNA’s queries, MINDEF said passengers will not be charged for the repatriation flights, which will operate as a no-frills service with one meal provided.
“The airspace in Saudi Arabia remains open during this time and necessary diplomatic clearances have been sought for the conduct of these repatriation flights. The MRTT will be utilising flight routes taken by civilian aircraft to ensure safety,” it added.
It added that the A330 MRTT can carry about 200 passengers.
