Khaleda Zia’s London Medical Flight Faces Third Postponement After Ambulance Cancellation

Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia remains stranded in Dhaka. Her critical medical evacuation to London was delayed again on Monday. This marks the third postponement of her urgently needed travel plans.

The latest halt came after the German air ambulance operator cancelled its approved landing slot. According to bdnews24.com, the operator formally withdrew its request to land in Dhaka on Tuesday. The 80-year-old leader’s health condition is described as highly critical.

Logistical Hurdles Stall Critical Medical Evacuation

The planned evacuation has faced repeated technical and logistical setbacks. The Qatar government had arranged a specialized Bombardier Challenger air ambulance for the long-haul flight. This jet is a flying intensive care unit, equipped with ventilators and staffed by a trained medical team.

However, the operator, Germany’s FAI Aviation Group, requested the cancellation of its Tuesday slot. No revised application has been submitted to Bangladeshi aviation authorities. Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) sources confirmed the formal cancellation request to tbsnews.net.

Political and Health Implications of the Delay

The indefinite delay carries significant weight. Khaleda Zia is the chairperson of the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Her prolonged illness and treatment abroad directly impact the country’s political landscape.

Her medical board has repeatedly stated she is too unwell for travel. She has been at Dhaka’s Evercare Hospital since late November for multiple ailments. The continued postponement underscores the severity of her condition and the complexities of high-stakes medical diplomacy.

This series of cancellations leaves Khaleda Zia’s path to advanced care in London uncertain. The situation highlights the fragile intersection of critical health needs and international logistics. Her medical team must now await a new viable solution for the urgent London medical flight.

Info at your fingertips

Why was Khaleda Zia’s air ambulance flight postponed again?

The flight was postponed after the German air ambulance operator cancelled its approved landing slot in Dhaka. No revised application has been filed, creating a new logistical hurdle for the medical team.

What is Khaleda Zia’s current health condition?

Her personal physician has stated she remains in a highly critical condition. Her medical board deemed her too unwell for the long-haul travel required to reach London for treatment.

Who arranged the air ambulance for her travel?

The Qatar government arranged the specialized medical jet, renting it from the Germany-based FAI Aviation Group. It was intended as a replacement for a previously delayed Qatari royal air ambulance.

Where will Khaleda Zia receive treatment in London?

She is planned to receive advanced medical care in London, where her elder son and acting BNP chief, Tarique Rahman, resides. The exact medical facility has not been publicly disclosed.

Has Khaleda Zia traveled abroad for treatment before?

Yes. She last traveled to London for medical care in January of this year. On that occasion, she also flew aboard an air ambulance from the Emir of Qatar’s personal fleet.