BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia left Dhaka for London on Tuesday night, boarding a special air ambulance provided by the Emir of Qatar. The aircraft, an Airbus A319 equipped as a "flying ICU," departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 10 pm. Senior BNP leaders and airport officials were present to see off the former Prime Minister, while a large crowd of party activists and well-wishers gathered outside the airport.
To ensure a smooth departure and maintain order, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) implemented extensive security measures. Law enforcement agencies, including the Airport Armed Police Battalion (APBn), Dhaka Metropolitan Police, and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), deployed over 800 personnel across the airport premises.
From 4 pm, the airport area was placed under heightened surveillance. Key points, such as the main gates, domestic terminal, and CAAB headquarters, were guarded by a quick response team and a dog squad. Vehicles entering the airport were thoroughly inspected, and individuals deemed suspicious were searched.
CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal MonjurKabirBhuiyan stated, "We have taken all necessary precautions to prevent any security issues. Maximum measures are in place to ensure the safety of both Khaleda Zia and other passengers."
Shihab Kaiser Khan, Commanding Officer of the Airport Armed Police, added, "Additional personnel and resources have been deployed. Any suspicious activity is being immediately addressed."
The air ambulance, dispatched by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, is equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities, including ventilators, defibrillators, infusion pumps, and cardiac monitors. Onboard, a team of four physicians and paramedics ensured continuous care during the journey.
The aircraft's interior is customised for medical evacuations, featuring patient zones, stretchers, and seating for family and specialists. Its advanced climate control and real-time communication capabilities allow the onboard team to provide optimal care.
Upon arrival at Heathrow International Airport, Khaleda Zia will be admitted to The London Clinic, a renowned medical centre. She is accompanied by six doctors from her medical team and four doctors from the air ambulance. BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, along with his wife and BNP leaders from the UK chapter, will welcome her.
This trip marks Khaleda Zia's first overseas visit since her release from jail and her first reunion with her son Tarique in seven years. Khaleda, who suffers from multiple health conditions, including liver cirrhosis, diabetes, arthritis, and complications involving her kidneys, lungs, and heart, last travelled abroad for treatment in 2017.
The air ambulance's departure underscores the Emir of Qatar's personal gesture of support, following reports of Khaleda's deteriorating health.
