New Delhi: Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to and from Riyadh until October 10 amid heightened security concerns following attacks on airports in Saudi Arabia claimed by Yemen’s Houthi group.
The decision comes after the Houthis claimed responsibility for a ballistic missile attack targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The escalating security situation has disrupted air travel, prompting several airlines to cancel services to the Saudi capital.
Air India and Air India Express have offered affected passengers options to reschedule their journeys or obtain refunds, depending on the airline’s policy. The airlines said they were closely monitoring developments in the region.
Air India Flight From Delhi Returns After Riyadh Disruptions
An Air India flight operating from Delhi to Riyadh returned to the national capital on Thursday as the security situation deteriorated. The airline subsequently suspended its Riyadh services through October 10.
Air India operates seven weekly flights to Riyadh from Delhi and Mumbai. Air India Express, meanwhile, operates 16 weekly flights to the Saudi capital from Bengaluru, Kochi, Kannur and Kozhikode.
Air India Express said affected passengers could opt for complimentary rescheduling or a full refund on cancellation. Air India also announced refunds for affected travellers.
Houthis Claim Missile Attack on Riyadh Airport
The flight suspensions follow renewed attacks and security alerts involving Saudi airports. Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi group claimed it had targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh with a ballistic missile.
Saudi authorities had not immediately confirmed the Houthis’ claim of a successful strike on the airport. The Saudi-led coalition said it had intercepted missiles launched towards Riyadh, while debris from an interception reportedly damaged a medical complex and a kindergarten.
Saudi authorities have also reported fatalities and injuries in attacks on airports in Riyadh and Abha earlier in the week. The developments have raised concerns about civilian safety and the impact on international aviation.
Other Airlines Also Cancel Riyadh Flights
Air India and Air India Express are not the only carriers affected by the security situation. IndiGo suspended its Riyadh flights until October 9, while Akasa Air also cancelled services to and from the Saudi capital through October 10.
Lufthansa Group announced a longer suspension of its Riyadh services, through October 16, citing developments in the Middle East.
King Khalid International Airport has urged passengers to check directly with their airlines to confirm flight status before travelling to the airport. Travellers scheduled to fly to or from Riyadh are advised to monitor airline announcements for the latest updates.
India Issues Advisory for Nationals in Saudi Arabia
Amid the deteriorating security situation, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh advised Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia to remain alert and vigilant, stay indoors when necessary and follow instructions issued by Saudi authorities through official channels.
The latest flight suspensions are a precautionary response to the evolving situation. Travellers should check their flight status with the airline before leaving for the airport and contact the carrier regarding rescheduling or refund arrangements.