Full Breakdown
Indian Airlines Suspend Flights to Saudi Arabia Until Mid-October 2026
By Drooid · · How we work
Flight Cancellations Announced
On October 13, 2026, IndiGo, Air India Express, Air India and Akasa Air announced that all scheduled services to and from the Saudi Arabian cities of Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah would be cancelled until October 17, 2026. The airlines said the decision reflects the “evolving situation” in the Gulf nation, where recent attacks—including a strike at Riyadh’s airport attributed to Houthi militants—have heightened security concerns.
Context of Regional Tensions
The cancellations follow a series of armed-drone and missile attacks launched by the Iran-backed Houthi group against Saudi targets. Earlier in the week, airlines had already suspended flights to Riyadh until October 15, 2026, and then extended the suspension as the security environment remained unstable.
Airline Responses
- Air India Express issued a statement emphasizing passenger safety, offering complimentary rescheduling or full refunds.
- Air India reiterated that safety and security of passengers and crew are its highest priority and promised full refunds for affected travelers.
- IndiGo advised customers to verify flight status online and highlighted that support teams remain available for queries.
Data Summary
Verbatim Quotes
- “In view of the evolving situation in the region, we have cancelled flights to and from Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh until 17 October. Affected guests are being offered complimentary rescheduling or a full refund on cancellation. We continue to monitor the situation closely,” — Air India Express
- “Timely updates are being shared on the contact details provided at the time of booking. Our support teams remain available to assist with any queries or concerns,” — IndiGo, in a post on X on Tuesday (October 13, 2026)