The task of bringing thousands of holidaymakers back from The Gambia is underway, with special flights being laid on.
Thomas Cook operated four extra flights from Banjul airport yesterday in addition to one scheduled flight.
In the next two days it will be operating another nine extra flights, in addition to two scheduled flights, to bring home its remaining UK customers.
Thomas Cook staff have flown out to help customers with check-in and departure.
Thousands of British holidaymakers have been told leave The Gambia due to growing tensions following the disputed Presidential elections on December 1 and the handover this week.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has changed its level of advice to the country, advising all but essential travel.
It said the decision was due to the ‘deteriorating political situation and potential military intervention’.
It warned there was also a high risk of civil disturbance and a possibility that Banjul International Airport could be closed at short notice.
"Banjul airport has limited check-in and departure facilities compared with most UK airports and is operating with fewer local staff because of the situation," said Thomas Cook.
"We would like to thank customers for their continued patience as our teams on the ground work to get everyone home as quickly as we can."
A spokesman said by the end of Friday (January 20) it expects to have brought home approximately 3,500 passengers on a total of 16 flights.
It has set up a dedicated phone number – 0044 161 774 2966 – for flight-only customers who are currently still in the Gambia and is urging them to get in touch as soon as possible to arrange their flight home.
Meanwhile, Serenity Holidays confirmed it has 225 package holiday customers and 109 flight only customers in The Gambia.
Its managing director Chris Rowles is currently in The Gambia assisting the resort team with repatriation arrangements.
