UK evacuation flight from Oman fails to depart, stranding vulnerable families

Muscat: The United Kingdom's first chartered evacuation flight from the Sultanate of Oman, meant for those most at risk, hit technical glitches and flight crew rest requirements on Wednesday March 4, forcing passengers back to a hotel after hours of agony.

This came amid a fifth-day Middle East war with U.S., Israeli, and Iranian strikes closing airspaces and stranding 300,000 Britons, as Oman serves as a neutral exit hub.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) continues to coordinate further evacuation efforts for over 100,000 registered nationals. While more than 1,000 citizens have managed to return home via limited commercial services, the situation remains challenging for those still waiting for secure transport.