THURSDAY 24 MARCH 11 am

Christchurch Airport has sent a Fire Truck to the city with a crew who have volunteered to work outside their shift hours to help with the rescue and recovery effort. All available equipment that can be spared, including cutting gear, has been sent in with the truck.

Christchurch Airport remains open for domestic and international flights. The normal flight schedule is operating, though the domestic network is experiencing some delays due to the large numbers of people being moved.

Singapore Airlines is putting on an extra 777 flight to Christchurch today which is due to arrive at 1pm.

The United Airlines flight which is bringing US Search and Rescue personnel is expected today; its arrival time is unconfirmed at this time.

A Japan Airlines jumbo jet flew to Christchurch this morning bringing a Search and Rescue team which have been deployed in the city; the aircraft has now been flown to Auckland.

Travellers at the airport remain calm and orderly. Many travellers slept at the airport last night; over 200 blankets were distributed to them.

Free wireless internet use and free car parking continues to be offered to travellers.

The airport company is distributing fruit to waiting international passengers.

Taxis and shuttles are still available at the airport.

Travellers who have unclaimed baggage from the day of the earthquake should check with the help desk at the airport.

For people travelling internationally who have either misplaced or lost their passport, it is important they follow the below procedures:
• Australian passport holders or Australian Permanent Residents must report to the Australian High Commissioner’s Desk at the Christchurch Airport International Arrivals Hall before checking in for their flight
• There is an American Consulate desk in the International Arrivals Hall by the Police kiosk
• A British consulate has been set up at the Commodore Hotel, on Memorial Ave just outside Christchurch Airport.
• Other foreign passport holders should report to the Burnside High School Welfare Centre where they can register with the Red Cross before going to the airport. The Red Cross will put them in contact with the appropriate embassy.
• Travellers with a Red Cross letter are being transported to Wellington and Auckland to go to their embassies.

ENDS

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