Saudi security threats disrupt Indian air links as Air India extends flight suspensions
Representational image. (Image courtesy: Wikimedia)
New Delhi: Air travel between India and Saudi Arabia is facing further disruption after Air India and Air India Express extended the suspension of services to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah. The decision comes amid continuing regional security concerns, with the latest restrictions now extending into the second half of November.
Flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam will remain suspended until November 30, while services connecting Jeddah will remain suspended until November 21. The airlines have not announced a confirmed date for the resumption of regular services beyond these deadlines.
The extensions come against the backdrop of escalating security concerns in West Asia, including missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. Yemen’s Houthi militia has repeatedly claimed attacks on Saudi energy facilities, airports and military installations.
On Friday, Houthi military spokesman, Yahya Saree, said in a Telegram statement that the group’s forces had targeted Aramco facilities in Riyadh, a military cargo aircraft at Sharurah Airport and Khamis Mushait Air Base using drones and missiles. He claimed the attacks had achieved their objectives. Saudi-led Coalition Forces also reported intercepting and destroying drones over Riyadh and the Eastern Province.
The developments have raised concerns about the safety of civilian aviation in the region. Missile launches, air-defence interceptions and potential attacks on airport infrastructure can pose risks to commercial aircraft, particularly during take-off and landing.
The extended suspensions could affect Indian workers, business travellers, families and religious pilgrims travelling between the two countries. Jeddah is a major entry point for international pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina for Umrah, while Riyadh and Dammam serve large Indian expatriate communities.
The continued cancellations may force passengers to postpone journeys, change travel dates or seek alternative connections through operational destinations. The uncertainty over when regular flights will resume also makes it difficult for travellers to finalize their plans.
Air India offers free rescheduling and full refunds
Passengers with confirmed bookings issued on or before November 10 can opt for complimentary rescheduling, subject to availability, or receive a full refund upon cancellation.
The waiver applies to bookings with travel dates up to November 30 for Riyadh and Dammam and November 21 for Jeddah.
Air India passengers can reschedule their journeys to or from any operational Air India station in Saudi Arabia. Air India Express passengers can choose any operational station served by the airline in Saudi Arabia or Bahrain.
For Riyadh and Dammam bookings, revised travel must be completed by December 14. For Jeddah bookings, the revised journey must be completed by December 5.
Passengers seeking assistance can contact Air India at +91 11 69329333 or +91 11 69329999. Air India Express passengers can call +91 124 6935600. Both airlines have also advised passengers to approach their city booking offices for assistance.
The latest suspension deadlines do not guarantee that flights will resume immediately afterwards. Further extensions or restoration of services will depend on the evolving security situation and the airlines’ operational assessments.
