The first of two charter flights of Australians out of Beirut, Lebanon has touched down in the safety of Cyprus on Saturday afternoon (night AEST).
About 500 passengers were on board the first mercy flight and have been processed at Larnaca Airport.
There were a mix of ages on board from the elderly to babes in arms and also, a mixture of emotions.
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Those coming off the flight said they are relieved to be safe and on their way back to Australia.
But, many are also feeling guilt, having left family and friends behind in a place that is now so very dangerous.
“It’s good that we get out,” Lodi Khalan told 9News.
“It’s better for the kids as well.”
When asked what it’s like in Lebanon currently, Khalan said: “Terrible, there is nothing to say in a good way”.
The passengers will spend the next few nights in Cyprus and then, once again, government organised Qantas planes will fly them back to Australia.
It’s an emotional journey for them, not knowing what sort of Lebanon they’ll be able to return to.
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