Air India has extended the suspension of its flights to and from Riyadh until October 15, 2026, as security concerns persist in the region following attacks claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, sources told Hindustan Times.
The airline said passengers affected by the cancellations would be eligible for a full refund if they chose to cancel their bookings. It added that it was monitoring the evolving situation and assessing developments before taking further decisions.
The extension comes after Air India Express, IndiGo and Akasa Air also cancelled flights operating to and from Riyadh amid heightened security concerns. The cancellations followed claims by Yemen’s Houthi rebels that they had carried out a ballistic missile strike on King Khalid International Airport in the Saudi capital.
Air India monitors regional security situation
With the situation continuing to evolve, Air India has kept its Riyadh flight operations suspended through October 15. Passengers scheduled to travel on the affected services have been offered refunds, while the airline continues to monitor developments.
The cancellations come amid concerns over the safety of civilian aviation infrastructure in Saudi Arabia following reported attacks on airports in the country.
India condemns attacks on Saudi airports
India on Thursday strongly condemned the attacks targeting Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, describing strikes on civilian infrastructure as unacceptable.
The Ministry of External Affairs said, “India condemns the attacks over the past few days targeting Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which have resulted in civilian deaths and injuries.”
Reiterating its position on attacks against civilian facilities, the ministry said, “The targeting of civilian infrastructure is completely unacceptable. We express our deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. We wish speedy recovery for those injured,”
New Delhi also conveyed its support to Riyadh amid the security situation. The ministry said, “We express solidarity and stand with the people and government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
The flight suspensions by Indian carriers follow the heightened security concerns linked to the attacks. Air India has not announced any change to the October 15 deadline, and its services to and from Riyadh remain cancelled until then.