Air India Cancels Saudi Arabia Flights Till October 20, Offers Full Refunds to Affected Passengers

Air India has extended the cancellation of all its flights to and from Saudi Arabia until October 20, 2026, as security concerns in the region continue to disrupt air travel. The airline said the decision was taken in view of the evolving situation in the Kingdom, and that passengers affected by the cancellations are being offered a full refund.

Which Flights Are Affected

The cancellations cover all Air India flights operating to and from three major Saudi cities: Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah. The airline had earlier announced cancellations until October 17, and the latest announcement, made on Friday, October 16, adds three more days to the disruption. Air India said it is closely monitoring developments and continuously assessing the situation so that operations can resume safely once conditions allow.

Air India Express Follows

Air India's low-cost sister airline, Air India Express, has also extended its suspension of flights to and from Dammam, Jeddah and Riyadh until October 20. The airline said it continues to monitor the situation and will review and adjust its operations as needed. Guests affected by the suspension are being offered either complimentary rescheduling or a full refund on cancellation, and passengers have been advised to check their flight status on the official website and make sure their contact details are up to date so that they can be informed directly.

Other Indian Airlines

The move follows similar decisions by other Indian carriers. IndiGo had announced cancellations of flights to and from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah until October 17, advising passengers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport. Akasa Air also extended the suspension of its flights to and from Riyadh and Jeddah until October 17, citing the escalating security situation and the risks to safe flight operations. Akasa Air said affected passengers could choose a full refund or reschedule their travel without additional charges.

The Security Situation

The suspensions come amid heightened security concerns following attacks on civilian airports, aircraft and aviation infrastructure in Saudi Arabia attributed to Houthi rebels in Yemen, including drone and missile strikes. The international civil aviation body's council has strongly condemned the attacks and expressed solidarity with the Saudi government and people. Airlines have said that the safety and security of passengers and crew remain their highest priority, and they have not yet given a firm date for resuming normal operations.

What Passengers Should Do

Passengers booked to travel to or from Saudi Arabia in the coming days should check the status of their flights before heading to the airport and make use of the refund or rescheduling options being offered. Those who must travel urgently may look at alternatives, as services operated by Saudi carriers such as Saudia, flynas and flyadeal were reported to be available. Pilgrims, workers and business travellers who rely on the India-Saudi route are likely to be among the most affected, given the large volume of traffic between the two countries.

Airlines are expected to announce further updates as the situation develops, and passengers are advised to stay in touch with their carriers for the latest information.

This report is based on published news coverage and statements issued by the airlines. The situation is evolving and schedules may change.