Khaleda Zia's London Air Ambulance Departure Indefinitely Postponed Due to Critical Health

Departure to London Postponed Indefinitely

The much-anticipated departure of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia to London for advanced medical treatment has been indefinitely postponed. The decision, announced on Saturday, December 6, 2025, by her personal physician, stems from the medical board's assessment that the 80-year-old leader is not currently in a physical condition suitable for air travel.

Critical Health Condition Details

Khaleda Zia, chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a three-time former Prime Minister, has been receiving critical care at Dhaka's Evercare Hospital since November 23, 2025. She was admitted due to multiple severe health complications, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, liver cirrhosis, kidney problems, and lung infections. Her condition necessitated a transfer to the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) on November 27, where she has remained under close observation. She also has a permanent pacemaker and has undergone heart stenting previously. At one point, she was placed on ventilation.

Air Ambulance Issues and Replacement

The initial plan for her departure on late Thursday, December 4, or early Friday, December 5, was first delayed to Sunday, December 7. This initial deferment was due to 'technical flaws' with an air ambulance offered by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, which could not reach Dhaka as scheduled. Subsequently, Qatar arranged for an alternative air ambulance, a twin-engine Bombardier Challenger (CL-60) model configured for medical transport, rented from the German company FAI Aviation Group. However, despite the availability of a replacement aircraft, the medical board's decision to postpone the journey was based solely on Ms. Zia's health.

Medical Board's Assessment and Future Plans

Dr. AZM Zahid Hossain, Ms. Zia's personal physician and a member of the medical board, stated that 'the medical board thinks it is not appropriate for her to travel abroad at this moment.' He emphasized that the highest priority is being given to her proper treatment, safety, and security. The medical board, comprising Bangladeshi, Chinese, and British doctors, will continue its efforts to stabilize her condition. Her daughter-in-law, Zubaida Rahman, arrived in Dhaka on Friday to accompany her to London, where London Bridge Hospital was identified as a potential destination for her advanced treatment.

Background and Previous Treatments

Khaleda Zia has a history of seeking medical treatment abroad, having traveled to London in January 2025 and returning in May 2025 for advanced care. Her son, Tarique Rahman, who serves as the acting chairman of the BNP, resides in London. The interim government of Bangladesh and the government of Qatar have reportedly been cooperating with the arrangements for her medical transfer.