Pravasi Welfare Kuwait arranges charter flight for stranded expats

20/04/2026

KUWAIT CITY, April 20: In a significant humanitarian effort, Pravasi Welfare Kuwait, an expatriate association serving the Indian community in Kuwait, has successfully arranged a special charter flight to assist expatriates affected by ongoing travel disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict.

The Kuwait Airways chartered flight departed from Dammam, Saudi Arabia, on April 7, carrying more than 250 passengers, and safely arrived in Kochi. This initiative has brought immense relief to expatriates, particularly those on visit visas and others facing uncertainty regarding their return amid the crisis.

To ensure smooth travel procedures, a dedicated check-in facility was set up at Khairan Mall, where Pravasi Welfare leaders and volunteers efficiently coordinated passenger processing. Passengers were also provided with snack packs before departure, enhancing their travel experience.

The return leg of the same charter flight has also been organized, enabling expatriates in Kerala to travel back to Kuwait. This has been especially beneficial for individuals with urgent work commitments or expiring visas, offering timely support during a critical period.

Pravasi Welfare Kuwait emphasized that these services are being provided at affordable rates, despite a sharp increase in airfares and limited intervention from authorities during the ongoing crisis.

A second chartered flight, arranged in coordination with Al Hind Travels, is scheduled for April 21 on the Dammam–Kochi sector, with a return journey planned for April 22.

Earlier, Pravasi Welfare Kuwait leaders met with Capt. Abdul Wahab Ibrahim Al Shatti, CEO of Kuwait Airways, who assured full support to the expatriate community during this challenging time. The meeting was attended by President Rafeeq Babu Ponmundam, Treasurer Shoukath Valanchery, and Vice President Layik Ahamed. The charter flight project was led by Khaleel Rahman.

Notably, Pravasi Welfare Kuwait had previously organized a charter flight during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing fully free tickets to stranded expatriates with the support of generous donors—further demonstrating its continued commitment to community welfare.