Air India cancels flights to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah until October 20 amid security concerns. Check refunds, travel updates and other airline suspensions.
Air India has extended the suspension of its services to and from three major Saudi Arabian cities until October 20, 2026, citing growing security concerns following reported attacks on civilian airports and aviation infrastructure. The decision affects passengers travelling between India and Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah, with the airline closely monitoring the situation before deciding when operations can safely resume.
The Air India flights to Saudi Arabia suspension comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and international concern over threats to civilian aviation. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council has strongly condemned attacks targeting airports, aircraft and aviation facilities in Saudi Arabia.
Air India Extends Flight Cancellations Until October 20
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Air India confirmed that all its flights to and from Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah would remain cancelled until October 20, 2026.
The airline said it was monitoring developments and regularly assessing the security situation to determine when flight operations could resume safely. It also emphasised that the safety of passengers and crew remained its highest priority.
The extension means travellers scheduled to fly on the affected routes will need to check their booking status and make alternative arrangements where necessary.
Full Refunds for Affected Passengers
Air India has announced full refunds for passengers whose journeys have been affected by the cancellations. The airline is continuing to evaluate the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Passengers planning to travel to Saudi Arabia are advised to check their flight status through official airline channels before leaving for the airport. Travellers should also review any communication received through the contact details provided during booking.
The Air India flights to Saudi Arabia disruption highlights the impact that regional security developments can have on international air travel, particularly on routes connecting India with major destinations in the Gulf.
ICAO Condemns Attacks on Saudi Aviation Infrastructure
The International Civil Aviation Organization Council has condemned recent attacks on civilian aviation infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, expressing solidarity with the country’s government and people.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the council conveyed its condolences to those affected by the incidents and their families. It also raised concerns about the consequences of targeting civilian airports and aviation facilities.
According to the statement, such attacks can disrupt air transport operations and pose serious risks to aviation safety and security. The council also highlighted the wider implications for international peace and security.
The condemnation followed a statement presented by Saudi Arabia before the ICAO Council on October 8, 2026.
The ICAO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that brings together 193 member states to develop international standards and recommended practices for civil aviation safety, security and sustainability.
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IndiGo and Akasa Air Also Suspend Saudi Flights
Air India is not the only Indian carrier to have suspended services on Saudi routes amid the deteriorating security situation.
IndiGo previously announced cancellations affecting flights to and from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah until October 17, 2026. The airline advised passengers to verify their flight status before travelling to the airport.
IndiGo also said it was coordinating with the relevant authorities and communicating updates to passengers through the contact information provided at the time of booking.
Akasa Air extended the suspension of its flights to and from Riyadh and Jeddah until October 17. The airline cited the evolving security situation and the associated risks to safe flight operations.
Affected Akasa Air passengers were offered the option of a full refund or rescheduling their journeys without additional charges, according to the airline’s advisory.
With multiple Indian carriers adjusting their schedules, travellers heading to Saudi Arabia are being advised to remain alert to official updates and changes to flight arrangements.
Riyadh Airport Attack Raises Further Concerns
Security concerns intensified following reports of an October 10 attack involving King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The reported death toll rose to 13 after the Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that an Indian national injured in the incident had died.
The incident has added to concerns about the safety of civilian aviation facilities in the region and the potential consequences for commercial air travel.
Amid the escalation, the Houthis issued a broad warning urging international airlines, foreign workers and commercial travellers to avoid Saudi aviation hubs. The group reportedly declared Saudi airspace unsafe, while making an exception for the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.
These developments have contributed to uncertainty for airlines operating in the region, with carriers assessing risks before maintaining or restoring scheduled services.
When Will Air India Resume Saudi Arabia Flights?
Air India has not announced an earlier resumption date for the affected routes. Its current cancellation extension remains in place until October 20, 2026, subject to further updates.
Passengers travelling to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah should confirm their flight status directly with the airline and review available refund or rebooking options.
The Air India flights to Saudi Arabia suspension reflects the broader challenges facing airlines as security conditions evolve across the Middle East. The airline has said it will continue monitoring developments and make decisions on resuming services based on safety assessments.
For now, passengers are advised to rely on official airline announcements and the latest travel guidance before making their way to the airport.
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