The Ministry advised that on Tuesday, 7 April, a charter flight will depart from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida bound for Bermuda, and will then depart Bermuda for Atlanta later that day.
A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Tourism and Transport advises that Travel Edge, working with the Bermuda Government, the U.S. Consulate and Delta Air Lines, has arranged for Bermuda residents and U.S. Nationals to be flown home.
“At 10:00 am on Tuesday, 7 April, a charter flight will depart from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida Hollywood International Airport [FLL] bound for Bermuda. The flight is then scheduled to depart Bermuda for Atlanta, Georgia later that day.
“Outside of the passengers deplaning in Bermuda, the flight crew will remain on board preparing for the return flight and will later return to Atlanta with the new passengers.
“Considering the challenge of practicing social distancing within the aircraft confines, where possible and without denying those who wish to board, the middle seats will be left vacant.
“Furthermore, based on an estimated 120 passengers in total and with no margin or mark-up, the ticket is priced at costs of $1000 per person. However, should fewer passengers purchase tickets there will be a surcharge, and should more people purchase tickets there will be a refund. Based on the interest expressed by many wishing to return to their respective home country, a surcharge is not expected.
“All passengers should also note the following:
- “Given the early departure time, passengers may have to overnight in Ft. Lauderdale.
- “Delta will deny boarding to individuals showing symptoms of COVID-19.
- “Passengers transitioning from a cruise ship will be required to present a medical certificate confirming good health and must wear a facemask at all times.
- “Due to overall weight restrictions, luggage will be removed if necessary.
“Bermuda residents in the U.S. who ordinarily reside on the island and U.S. Nationals in Bermuda who wish to return home are advised to take advantage of this opportunity and book the flight directly with Travel Edge. Please contact Pat Trott at pat.trott@traveledge.bm or 441-299-8717.
“Note, however, Florida has banned inbound travel from New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Lousiana, so, those wishing to take this flight must be able to connect directly on the same day. Travel Edge can assist those travellers with bookings.
“The public is also advised that the Department of Immigration continues working to ensure the children of work permit holders can return to Bermuda.
“Those Work Permit Holders whose children plan on returning to the island should immediately contact the department by sending an email to the Chief Immigration Officer, Dr. Danette Ming, [dwming@gov.bm] providing the child’s full name and date of birth along with the full name of the parent holding the work permit.
“As a reminder, every returning resident is advised that to control COVID-19, they will be required to quarantine in a Government approved quarantine facility for 14 days.
“A comprehensive health declaration form is required to be completed by returning residents. Completion of the form is required on arrival or can be completed in advance: here.
“For questions or concerns about COVID-19, please call the helpline at 441-444-2498, available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm daily.
“For more information, the Ministry of Health has provided the public with accurate, reliable information regarding COVID-19 here.”
