Indian airlines suspend Riyadh flights after Houthi missile attack

Major Indian carriers have suspended their flights to and from Riyadh after reports of a Houthi attack in Saudi Arabia's capital. An Air India flight operating from Delhi to Riyadh turned back mid-flight following reports of the attack on King Khalid International Airport. Flight AI2243 had departed from Delhi at around 2:40 pm and landed back in Delhi at about 6:45 pm after flying for about two hours.

Flight Cancellations And Options

Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to and from Riyadh until October 10. Both airlines are offering full refunds on cancellations, while Air India Express is also providing complimentary rescheduling options. Market leader IndiGo cancelled all flights to and from Riyadh until October 9 due to the prevailing security situation. IndiGo is offering affected customers free rescheduling or full refunds via its system. Akasa Air cancelled two flights between Kochi and Riyadh scheduled for October 8, offering full refunds or free rescheduling.

Attack Details And Regional Impact

Several explosions were heard in Riyadh, including a large blast at the international airport, following a previous attack that killed one person and wounded others. Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed responsibility for the attack using a ballistic missile. The spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition, Maj. Gen. Turki al-Malki, stated that forces intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched toward Riyadh and another fired toward Khamis Mushait.

Context

Airline flight paths and schedules are routinely adjusted during sudden security crises to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East frequently impact international aviation routes and regional energy markets.