Middle East conflict continues to disrupt flights to Gulf region

Airline operations to the Gulf region remain affected as services resume at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport, with several flights cancelled amid ongoing Middle East security concerns. The disruption follows an escalation in the conflict triggered by Houthi missile and drone attacks.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency has extended its advisory against flying over parts of the Gulf, including waters around the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar, until at least November 16. The warning applies to both EU carriers and non-EU airlines authorized to operate in the EU.

Following the advisory, several international carriers have suspended services to affected countries or rerouted flights to avoid Iranian, Iraqi, Israeli and Gulf airspace. The measures are affecting travel plans for Indian passengers heading to the Gulf and on to Western destinations.

Air India and Air India Express have suspended flights to and from Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam until October 24. IndiGo has cancelled flights to and from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah through October 24, while Akasa Air has suspended Riyadh until October 24 and Jeddah until October 21.

The Tata Group airlines are monitoring the situation before deciding on a resumption of operations. Passengers affected by the cancellations have been advised to check current advisories for refund and rebooking options, and those traveling to Saudi Arabia should verify flight status before heading to the airport.