Air India and major Indian carriers such as IndiGo, Air India Express, and Akasa Air have extended flight suspensions to and from key Saudi Arabian destinations. These include Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah. The cancellation has been extended until at least the 15th of October, 2026. This particular disruption follows repeated drone and missile strikes targeting Riyadh’s capital airport by the Houthi rebels. Following this, the Saudi authorities have temporarily closed the airport amid ongoing airspace restrictions and security threats. Here are the main details.
Riyadh Flights Canceled; See Airline-Wise Details
The following airlines have had their Middle East flight schedules disrupted by the ongoing conflict in the region.
Air India: The flight operations to and from Riyadh remain suspended through the 15th of October.
IndiGo: This particular carrier has extended cancelations for all flights servicing Riyadh and Dammam until October 15.
Air India Express: As per reports, this carrier has canceled services to Dammam and Jeddah for October 12. Riyadh flights, too, are canceled until October 15.
Akasa Air: This airline, too, has temporarily halted its flight services to Jeddah and Riyadh till the 13th of October. Its flight schedule, as per reports, is under continuous review.
Indian Expats Affected
The strike has resulted in a significant strain on the travel corridor between Saudi Arabia and India. This has, in turn, affected a number of Indian expatriates, business travelers, and pilgrims stranded in the Middle East. Many are also in need of schedule revisions so that they are able to book flights back home.
The Saudi-led coalition has reported fresh incoming aerial projectiles and drones over the capital’s airspace. This has forced the regional air traffic controllers to restrict corridor movements for civil aviation safety.
Also Read: Air India Express To Operate 585 Daily Flights From October 25, Announces 40+ New Routes
Summing Up
The impact of the strikes can be seen on airlines as well as on the lives of people. If you or someone you know is traveling to or from Saudi Arabia, make sure you keep an eye on the latest travel and flight advisories released by government bodies. Make sure to also keep an eye on flight radars and real-time flight updates.
