LONDON: A former Afghan Air Force pilot, who served alongside British forces and fled the Taliban, remains in a hotel a month after the UK approved his asylum application, according to The Independent’s report on Thursday.
Despite being labeled a “hero” and “patriot” by coalition allies, the pilot’s case caused a stir when he faced deportation threats to Rwanda for crossing the English Channel illegally. He is currently struggling to secure permanent accommodation and is reliant on universal credit, a government financial aid program that often falls short of covering rent expenses.
Additionally, the pilot is unable to reunite with his family, who are in hiding in Afghanistan, until he secures stable housing. Local councils are giving priority to families over single migrants due to shortages.
The pilot is concerned about the risk of homelessness if he doesn’t secure permanent housing soon. The UK Home Office has been expediting the processing of asylum applications and aiming to reduce the time individuals whose applications are approved can stay in government-funded accommodations. Some have been evicted in as little as seven days.
The pilot has yet to receive an eviction notice, which he needs to apply for social housing through a local authority.
In his interview with The Independent, the pilot expressed his determination to find a shared house or flat but highlighted the difficulty of the search. He emphasized his ability to work and study and his desire to utilize his pilot training in the UK. He hopes to secure a job and regain economic stability, allowing him to stand on his own feet.
He explained, “I have a serious problem, which is an economic problem. If I can get some income, it will be very easy for me.” He acknowledged the availability of aviation academies but noted the financial challenges he currently faces. He remains determined to explore ways to overcome his economic constraints and build a better future.
