The UK government has announced plans to bring home about 2 000 British travellers in South Africa between May 23 and June 4 as the world grapples with the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

British travellers who wish to return to the UK can book one of ten charter flights.

More than 2 200 British travellers have already returned on special charter flights in March and April.

The UK government is working with the airline industry and host governments across the world to bring back British travellers to the UK as part of the plan announced by Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in March, with up to £75-million available for special charter flights to priority countries, focused on helping the most vulnerable travellers.

Minister of Africa in the UK James Duddridge says the additional seven flights will depart from Cape Town while the remaining three will depart from Johannesburg.

“We have been working hard to help thousands of Brits in South Africa and around the world return to the UK, prioritising the most vulnerable,” Duddridge said.  

British travellers wishing to return on these flights should visit FCO Travel Advice: South Africa for further information on how to register.

British travellers in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal or East London, in the Eastern Cape, should book flights from Johannesburg and those in the Western Cape and Port Elizabeth should book flights from Cape Town.

The British High Commission in South Africa will arrange buses from Durban and East London to Johannesburg, and from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town to ensure passengers on the flights are able to arrive at the airports safely. 

The British High Commission continues to provide consular assistance to British nationals who remain in South Africa. While there are currently no further special charter flights planned from South Africa after 4 June this will be kept under review, with FCO Travel Advice updated if this changes.