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Middle East Airspace Chaos: Flights Delayed Amid Tensions
20 Oct
Summary
- Riyadh airport reopened but flights remain suspended by many airlines.
- Security concerns force airlines to cancel or alter routes into November.
- Passengers must confirm flight status directly with airlines.
Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport has resumed operations, but numerous airlines have kept flights suspended and schedules modified due to persistent Middle East security tensions. Carriers like Air India and Emirates have cancelled services to significant Saudi destinations, with disruptions anticipated to continue into November. These ongoing issues impact not only direct travel to Saudi Arabia but also transit hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha for passengers traveling from India.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has extended its advisory, warning airlines against flying over Gulf waters until November 16 due to risks from missiles and drones. Several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, Akasa Air, Etihad, Emirates, and Flydubai, have suspended flights to various Saudi cities until at least October 24, with some extending cancellations much further. International carriers like Lufthansa and British Airways have also extended cancellations into November and even 2027.
While some airspaces like those of the UAE, Qatar, Iraq, and Israel have reopened, Saudi Arabian airspace remains vulnerable. Passengers are urged to check their flight status directly with airlines, monitor booking notifications, and review refund or rebooking policies to navigate the continuing travel disruptions.
