IndiGo Halts Saudi Flights After Deadly Airport Attack
IndiGo extends flight cancellations to Riyadh and other Saudi cities following a deadly attack at King Fahd International Airport.
In response to an evolving security crisis in Saudi Arabia, IndiGo has announced the extension of flight cancellations for several key routes. The decision comes as a direct result of a deadly security breach at the King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, prompting the airline to prioritize the safety of its passengers and crew.
Flight Cancellation Details
According to a travel advisory shared by the airline on X, IndiGo has implemented different timelines for the suspension of its services across the Kingdom:
- Riyadh: All flights to and from Riyadh will remain cancelled until October 31, 2026 (inclusive).
- Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah: Flights to and from these three cities will remain suspended until October 27, 2026 (inclusive).
The airline stated that these measures were taken after a careful assessment of the current security landscape. IndiGo is continuing to monitor the situation closely and is in constant coordination with relevant authorities to determine when it is safe to resume normal operations.
The Tragedy at King Fahd International Airport
The sudden suspension of flights follows a violent attack at the King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on Wednesday evening. Saudi authorities reported that the incident resulted in two deaths and left eight others injured.
The tragedy has hit the Indian community hard. The Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that one Indian national was killed in the attack, while two other Indian citizens sustained injuries. The Embassy is currently working to gather more details and is in contact with the families of those affected.
The Saudi Arabia General Authority of Civil Aviation confirmed that the deceased included a Saudi citizen and an Indian resident. The injured parties, which include two Indian residents and nationals from other countries, are currently receiving medical treatment for injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Current Status of Airport Operations
Despite the security scare and the subsequent flight cancellations by carriers, the General Authority of Civil Aviation has stated that airport operations have since resumed. Air traffic has reportedly returned to normal, although officials are still assessing the damage and implementing measures to ensure the continued safety of staff and travelers.
Impact on Passengers and Other Airlines
IndiGo has emphasized that the well-being of its customers and crew is its highest priority. The airline is notifying affected passengers via the contact information provided during booking. Travelers are strongly advised to verify their flight status on the official IndiGo website before heading to the airport.
IndiGo is not the only airline taking a cautious approach. Akasa Air has also extended the suspension of its flights to Riyadh and Jeddah until October 27, citing broader security concerns within the Middle East region.