IndiGo has cancelled all flights to and from four Saudi Arabian cities, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah, until October 17, citing the evolving situation in Saudi Arabia. The announcement follows missile and drone attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi rebels that have disrupted air travel across the kingdom.
The cancellations come after Saudi authorities extended the suspension of operations at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport following a series of attacks, including a deadly strike on Saturday. The airport was ordered to remain closed until at least October 17 so authorities could assess the safety and operational readiness of its facilities.
Thirteen people, including an Indian, died following Saturday’s attack on the airport complex, which injured more than 300. Another attack on Sunday killed one person and injured 11 others. The strikes have raised concerns over the safety of civil aviation in Saudi Arabia.
Other airlines suspend services
IndiGo is among several carriers to have cancelled or suspended services to Saudi Arabia amid the security crisis.
Air India has extended the suspension of flights to and from Riyadh until October 15. Air India Express has also suspended services to and from Riyadh until October 15, according to PTI.
Akasa Air has extended its suspension of flights to and from Riyadh and Jeddah until October 17.
International carriers have also curtailed operations. Lufthansa Group carriers cancelled flights to Riyadh until October 16, while Air France-KLM extended its suspension of services to and from the Saudi capital until the end of October. Etihad Airways and Philippine Airways have also followed suit.
Attacks intensify security concerns
The strikes come amid an escalation in the conflict involving the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces in Yemen, with the wider regional conflict adding to concerns over the safety of air travel.
Passengers scheduled to travel to or from Saudi Arabia have been advised to check directly with their airlines before heading to the airport and to follow official updates on cancellations, rebookin,g and refunds.