New Delhi — Air India Express has canceled flights to and from three major Saudi Arabian cities through October 17, citing growing security concerns amid escalating regional tensions and attacks on airport infrastructure.
The airline announced Tuesday that services to Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh would remain suspended as it continues to assess the security situation.
Passengers affected by the cancellations are being offered complimentary rescheduling or full refunds.
“In view of the evolving situation in the region, we have cancelled flights to and from Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh until 17 October. Affected guests are being offered complimentary rescheduling or a full refund on cancellation. We continue to monitor the situation closely,” an Air India Express spokesperson said.
The decision follows reports of drone and missile attacks targeting airport infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, prompting airlines to reassess flight operations and take precautionary measures to protect passengers and crews.
The security situation has disrupted international air travel to several Saudi destinations, with Indian airlines among the carriers adjusting schedules.
Earlier this week, Air India extended its suspension of flights to and from Riyadh until October 15 following repeated attacks on the Saudi capital’s airport attributed to Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi rebels.
Saudi authorities have kept Riyadh airport closed amid continued security threats, according to the report.
Other Indian carriers, including IndiGo and Akasa Air, have also canceled services to affected Saudi Arabian destinations.
IndiGo has extended its suspension of flights to Riyadh and Dammam until October 15 as it evaluates developments in the region.
The disruptions come against the backdrop of heightened tensions involving Iran and the United States, with attacks and security threats affecting commercial aviation operations across the region.
Air India Express said it would continue monitoring conditions before making further decisions about restoring its Saudi Arabian services. (Source: IANS)
