Air India cancels flights to Saudi Arabia till Oct 17 amid regional conflict

The decision comes as disruptions at major Saudi airports raise concerns over passenger safety and the continuity of commercial aviation operations.Air India also confirmed that affected passengers would be eligible for a full refund if they cancelled their bookings. (File photo)New Delhi,Oct 13, 2026 17:03 ISTIndian carrier Air India has cancelled all flights to and from Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah until October 17, 2026, amid escalating security concerns in the region following a series of attacks claimed by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels.The decision comes as disruptions at major Saudi airports raise concerns over passenger safety and the continuity of commercial aviation operations.In a statement issued on Tuesday, Air India said the decision was taken in view of the evolving situation in Saudi Arabia. The airline said it was closely monitoring developments and assessing the situation before deciding when it could safely resume services on the affected routes."In view of the evolving situation in Saudi Arabia, all Air India flights to and from Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah stand cancelled until 17 October 2026," the airline said in a post on X. Air India also confirmed that affected passengers would be eligible for a full refund if they cancelled their bookings. Reiterating its commitment to passenger and crew safety, the carrier said, "At Air India, the safety and security of our passengers and crew remain the highest priority".HOUTHI ATTACKS RAISE SECURITY CONCERNSThe cancellations follow a series of attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, including strikes affecting airports in Riyadh and Dammam. The incidents have disrupted flight operations and prompted authorities and airlines to reassess security risks associated with air travel in the kingdom.The Iran-backed Houthi rebels have claimed responsibility for attacks involving ballistic missiles and other projectiles targeting Saudi facilities.Recent incidents around King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh have heightened concerns after deadly strikes and reports of damage at airport premises.Saudi authorities have also reported casualties and damage caused by attacks and intercepted missiles. The security situation has prompted precautionary measures, including the suspension of airport operations in Riyadh, while officials undertake safety assessments and work to establish operational readiness.The extended restrictions are expected to affect passengers travelling between India and Saudi Arabia, particularly those relying on Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah as destinations or transit points.Travellers may need to revise their itineraries as airlines respond to changing security conditions.ADVISORY FOR INDIA NATIONALSAmid the developments, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh earlier urged Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia to remain alert, exercise caution and follow instructions issued by local authorities through official channels. It has also advised them against circulating or reposting videos and news related to the prevelant situation.- Ends