Riyadh/New Delhi, October 8, 2026: Multiple explosions and attacks targeting airports in Saudi Arabia have caused major disruption to civilian air travel, prompting airlines to cancel or divert flights and leading the Indian Embassy to issue a safety advisory for Indian nationals living in the Kingdom.
The latest disruption followed explosions in the Saudi capital Riyadh, including at or around King Khalid International Airport. Air traffic at the airport was temporarily brought to a halt, with numerous departures cancelled or delayed as authorities assessed the security situation.
Saudi authorities have said King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport were among civilian aviation facilities targeted during a series of attacks over recent days. India has officially condemned the attacks, describing the targeting of civilian infrastructure as unacceptable and expressing condolences to the families of those killed.
Yemen’s Houthi movement has claimed responsibility for several of the recent attacks, including a missile strike targeting Riyadh airport. Saudi forces have said missiles were intercepted during the escalation. Claims made by the Houthis regarding individual strikes remain subject to confirmation by Saudi authorities.
The security situation had an immediate impact on an Air India flight travelling from Delhi to Riyadh. Air India flight AI2243, which departed Delhi at around 2.40 pm on Thursday, was turned around while en route to Saudi Arabia and returned safely to Delhi.
The aircraft subsequently landed back in Delhi at approximately 6.45 pm. The airline took the decision as conditions around Riyadh airport continued to evolve and passenger and crew safety became the primary concern.
Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to and from Riyadh until October 10 because of the security situation. Passengers affected by the cancellations are being offered options including complimentary rescheduling or full refunds.
Other Indian carriers have also adjusted operations. Airlines have advised passengers travelling to or from Saudi Arabia to check their latest flight status before leaving for the airport, as schedules could continue to change at short notice.
King Khalid International Airport has similarly advised passengers to contact their airlines directly and confirm the status of their flights before travelling to the airport.
The attacks have come amid an escalation in fighting involving Houthi forces in Yemen and Saudi-backed Yemeni forces. Airports and other civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia have increasingly been affected by the renewed hostilities, adding fresh pressure on regional air travel.
Against this backdrop, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh has issued an advisory for Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia, asking them to remain alert, stay indoors where appropriate and strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities.
The Embassy has also advised Indians not to circulate or repost videos and unverified information relating to the ongoing security situation. Citizens have been asked to rely on official channels for updates and avoid unnecessary movement in affected areas.
Despite the heightened security situation, the Embassy in Riyadh, the Indian Consulate in Jeddah and related consular and visa services continue to function normally. Emergency assistance remains available to Indian nationals who require support.
Saudi aviation authorities and airlines continue to monitor the situation, and further flight cancellations or route changes cannot be ruled out if security conditions deteriorate.
Passengers with upcoming travel plans to Riyadh or other affected Saudi destinations should therefore verify their flight status directly with their airline before beginning their journey.
The situation remains fluid, with Saudi authorities assessing airport operations and security agencies monitoring potential threats to civilian infrastructure. Further updates are expected as airlines determine when normal flight operations can safely resume.
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