Air India, IndiGo and Air India Express today stated that they were suspending operations from and to Riyadh until October 10 due to the evolving security situation in the region.
The companies’ policy would cover the removal of passengers who are affected, offering them a full refund or free rebooking. “After considering the situation in the region there the decision was made and it is being closely watched and monitored and more will be taken soon,” said Air India Express.
We’ve canceled flights to and from Riyadh through October 10 because of the dynamic situation in the region,” said an Air India Express spokesperson. “If you need to fly to or from Riyadh, please reconfirm your itinerary or you’ll be given a full refund.
The cancelations coincide with growing security fears as a result of what are reportedly attacks and threats linking to Saudi Arabia. In recent days, the Houthis, who have Iranian backing, have asserted they have launched attacks on an oil facility, military bases and airports in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Yemen.
The group also warned international flights in Saudi airspace, which it termed to be theater of its military operations. Warnings have caused concerns to commercial aviation and reinforced the review of the flights carried out by airlines.
The King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh also urged passengers to call their airlines to find out if there have been any changes in their flights before heading to the airport. The warning is posted following several blasts in the Saudi capital earlier Thursday.
The Houthis calling themsevles the Yemeni rebels blamed for the attacks at Riyadh and Abha airports for killing three people, according to Saudi authorities on Wednesday. The Houthis and Saudi Arabia continued to escalate fighting, causing the deaths reported.
The ongoing situation has not stabilized, and airlines are keeping an eye on developments, modifying flight timing as necessary. The only advice given to the passengers of India and Saudi Arabia is to consult their airlines directly to get the latest news before reaching the airport.