New Delhi, October 13: Indian airlines IndiGo, Air India and Akasa Air have suspended several flights to and from Saudi Arabia until October 17, 2026, citing the escalating security situation in the Middle East and concerns over safe flight operations.
IndiGo announced the cancellation of flights connecting Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah until Saturday. The airline advised passengers to check their flight status on its official website before leaving for the airport and said updates would be shared through the contact details provided at the time of booking.
The airline also stated that it was coordinating with relevant authorities and that passenger safety remained its top priority.
Akasa Air has extended the suspension of all flights to and from Riyadh and Jeddah until October 17, citing the deteriorating security situation in the region.
The airline said affected passengers could opt for a full refund, which would be credited to their original payment method within seven days, or reschedule their journeys without additional charges. Passengers who booked through travel partners have been advised to contact them directly for assistance.
Air India has also cancelled flights to and from Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah until October 17. The airline said it was closely monitoring developments and assessing the situation to determine when safe operations could resume.
Affected Air India passengers are being offered full refunds on cancelled bookings, the airline said.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia has amplified the airlines’ travel advisories, urging passengers to take note of the cancellations and check directly with their respective carriers for the latest updates.
Indian National Killed in Riyadh Airport Attack
The flight suspensions come amid heightened regional tensions following a reported attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on October 10.
Earlier, the Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia confirmed the death of Indian national Mohammed Yousef Ali, who was injured in the incident. India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Vipul, along with embassy officials, attended his funeral service and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family, assuring them of continued assistance.
According to the report, the death toll from the October 10 attack rose to 13 following confirmation of the Indian national’s death.
Meanwhile, the Houthis reportedly issued a warning to international airlines, foreign workers and commercial travellers against using Saudi aviation hubs, declaring Saudi airspace unsafe while exempting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
Passengers Advised to Check Flight Status
With airlines continuing to assess the evolving security situation, passengers travelling between India and Saudi Arabia have been advised to verify their flight schedules before heading to airports.
Travellers whose flights have been cancelled should contact their respective airlines or travel agents to confirm refund and rescheduling options.
The suspensions are currently scheduled to remain in place until October 17, subject to further assessments and updates from the airlines.
