The British government is ramping up evacuation operations from Oman, working with commercial airlines to increase flight capacity for British nationals stranded in the Gulf amid widespread airspace closures and escalating regional tensions.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper told Parliament that the United Kingdom is coordinating closely with airlines and Gulf partners to organise additional departures from Muscat, with priority given to vulnerable individuals as part of a fast-moving response to the crisis.

Ms Cooper confirmed that a government-chartered flight will depart from Muscat in the coming days, supplementing scheduled airline services that are operating under highly constrained conditions due to continued threats from Iranian retaliatory strikes.

She emphasised that the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has registered around one hundred and thirty thousand British citizens across the region, underscoring the scale of the government’s efforts to ensure their safe return.

The United Kingdom’s work with carriers involves not only the state charter but also extending capacity on existing commercial flights out of Oman where possible.

British Airways has already scheduled a service from Muscat to the UK to repatriate passengers, and efforts are under way to secure additional seats on other carriers as regional airspace disruptions and closures continue to affect normal operations.

The need for enhanced evacuation capacity arises against the backdrop of limited commercial flights across major Gulf hubs, as airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and other centres have been suspended or significantly reduced following Iranian missile activity and retaliatory strikes.

Some airlines have begun limited operations where airspace is partially reopened, but the overall disruption remains significant, prompting national governments, including the UK, to take extraordinary measures.

Cooper said the Foreign Office is in close contact with its counterparts across Gulf states, as well as local authorities, to facilitate departures and to assist British nationals in navigating evolving travel options.

The government’s approach combines diplomatic engagement, logistical coordination with airline partners and direct communications with those registered in Oman and neighbouring countries about their options and priorities for evacuation.

UK travel advice continues to encourage British nationals in the region to stay informed of changes to flight operations, to register with the Foreign Office for updates, and to follow consular guidance regarding safety precautions.

As the situation develops, London’s coordinated effort with airlines and regional authorities aims to maximise opportunities for British nationals to depart safely from Oman and other Gulf locations under exceptional circumstances.