Air India, IndiGo and Akasa Air extend suspensions amid security concerns, while services from the Gulf, Europe and Asia remain affected
Saudi Arabia’s aviation disruption has widened, with airlines from India, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Europe and other regions extending flight suspensions following attacks on airports and aviation infrastructure. The latest cancellations are affecting passengers travelling to and from major Saudi cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam.
Indian carriers have announced fresh extensions to their suspensions as the security situation remains uncertain. Air India and Air India Express have cancelled flights to and from Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah until October 20. IndiGo has extended cancellations affecting Saudi Arabia until October 24, while Akasa Air has suspended flights to and from Riyadh until October 24 and Jeddah until October 21.
The disruption follows attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi movement, which have raised concerns about the safety of civilian aviation. Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport remains closed, with the latest reported restriction running until late on October 17 GMT. This is a deadline for the suspension, not a confirmed reopening time.
Gulf and international services affected
Several airlines in the Gulf have also adjusted their schedules. Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam. Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai and Air Arabia have reported cancellations or disruption affecting routes linking the UAE with Saudi destinations. Gulf Air has also suspended services involving Riyadh.
-
Outside the Gulf, Air France-KLM has extended its suspension of flights to and from the Saudi capital until the end of October
-
Cathay Pacific has postponed the resumption of its Hong Kong–Riyadh and Hong Kong–Dubai routes until January 31, 2027, while Delta Air Lines has delayed its planned Atlanta–Riyadh service until March 2027
The suspension periods differ by airline and destination, and not every service on an affected route is necessarily cancelled on every day.
Advice for Indian travellers
Indian nationals and passengers with bookings have been urged to follow official advisories and check directly with their airlines before travelling to airports. Travellers should confirm their flight status, refund eligibility and rescheduling options rather than relying on earlier itineraries.
India has also issued a fresh advisory asking nationals in Saudi Arabia to follow local authorities’ instructions and remain indoors in the event of an aerial threat. The situation remains fluid, and airlines are reviewing their schedules as security assessments develop.
