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06/11/2015
EasyJet Rescue Flights Suspended By Egyptian Authorities
EasyJet has announced a number of its rescue flights – to bring home Britons who have been stranded in Sharm el-Sheikh – have been suspended by Egyptian authorities.
In a statement, the airline said: "Eight of easyJet's planned flights today will no longer be able to operate due to Egyptian authorities suspending permissions.
"We are working with the UK Government at the highest level on a solution. In the meantime we are also working on a contingency plan so we can operate as soon as we receive permission to fly."
There are two flights due to depart from Sharm el-Sheikh today – EZY9398 Sharm el-Sheikh to London Luton, and EZY9854 Sharm el-Sheikh to London Gatwick.
It is understood 339 passengers will arrive back in the UK today, but the other flights have been suspended.
The news comes after hundreds of stranded Britons were due to start flying home from the resort today, 6 November, after the UK government confirmed it had agreed a new package of airport security measures with Egypt. Earlier this week, the UK Foreign Office said all flights between the country and Sharm el-Sheikh had been cancelled due to security fears after a Russian jet crashed last weekend, killing all 224 people on board. Intelligence has since suggested that a bomb may have been the cause of the crash.
On Thursday, the Foreign Office said it was working to resume flights as soon as possible, but passenger safety was its priority.
A spokesperson for Downing Street said: "Following further discussions with the airlines and the Egyptians we have agreed on a package of additional security measures that is being put in place rapidly. Consequently the government has decided, in consultation with the airlines, that flights from Sharm to the UK will resume tomorrow [Friday].
"The additional security measures will include permitting passengers to carry hand baggage only and transporting hold luggage separately. We are working with the airlines to ensure there are suitable arrangements in place to reunite passengers with their belongings as soon as possible."
Outbound flights from the UK to Sharm el-Sheikh remain suspended, while people have been advised against travel by air to or from Sharm el Sheikh airport.
(JP/LM)
In a statement, the airline said: "Eight of easyJet's planned flights today will no longer be able to operate due to Egyptian authorities suspending permissions.
"We are working with the UK Government at the highest level on a solution. In the meantime we are also working on a contingency plan so we can operate as soon as we receive permission to fly."
There are two flights due to depart from Sharm el-Sheikh today – EZY9398 Sharm el-Sheikh to London Luton, and EZY9854 Sharm el-Sheikh to London Gatwick.
It is understood 339 passengers will arrive back in the UK today, but the other flights have been suspended.
The news comes after hundreds of stranded Britons were due to start flying home from the resort today, 6 November, after the UK government confirmed it had agreed a new package of airport security measures with Egypt. Earlier this week, the UK Foreign Office said all flights between the country and Sharm el-Sheikh had been cancelled due to security fears after a Russian jet crashed last weekend, killing all 224 people on board. Intelligence has since suggested that a bomb may have been the cause of the crash.
On Thursday, the Foreign Office said it was working to resume flights as soon as possible, but passenger safety was its priority.
A spokesperson for Downing Street said: "Following further discussions with the airlines and the Egyptians we have agreed on a package of additional security measures that is being put in place rapidly. Consequently the government has decided, in consultation with the airlines, that flights from Sharm to the UK will resume tomorrow [Friday].
"The additional security measures will include permitting passengers to carry hand baggage only and transporting hold luggage separately. We are working with the airlines to ensure there are suitable arrangements in place to reunite passengers with their belongings as soon as possible."
Outbound flights from the UK to Sharm el-Sheikh remain suspended, while people have been advised against travel by air to or from Sharm el Sheikh airport.
(JP/LM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
