Flights between India and Saudi Arabia are experiencing significant disruptions due to ongoing security concerns in the region. Akasa Air has announced an extension of its suspension for services to Jeddah until November 18 and for Riyadh until November 30. This decision was made public on Sunday, following similar announcements from other airlines.

Two days prior, Air India and Air India Express declared that their flights to and from Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam would remain suspended until November 14. IndiGo has also ceased operations to several destinations in Saudi Arabia until the same date. These measures are a direct response to recent attacks on civilian infrastructure within the kingdom.

The Indian Embassy in Riyadh confirmed that an Indian national lost their life and two others sustained injuries in an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 21. Another Indian national was reportedly injured in an assault on Saudi Aramco’s Shaybah oil field, highlighting the escalating security situation.

Indian Embassy’s Response to Attacks

In light of these incidents, the Indian Embassy has been in contact with Saudi authorities to provide assistance to affected nationals. The Embassy condemned the attacks on civilian infrastructure, asserting that such actions are unacceptable. The Indian government has previously denounced assaults on Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.

The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have claimed responsibility for multiple attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, including airports and energy facilities. These attacks are part of a broader regional conflict that has raised tensions in the area. The Embassy has issued advisories urging Indian nationals to remain calm and vigilant, advising them to stay indoors during air attacks and to follow local authorities’ instructions.

Furthermore, the Embassy has cautioned against circulating or reposting videos or news related to the ongoing situation, emphasising the need for responsible communication among the community. The Consulate General of India in Jeddah is actively working with airlines and local organisations to assist Indian nationals, particularly those travelling for Umrah.

Current Operations and Passenger Guidance

Despite the disruptions caused by the security situation, some Saudi carriers continue to operate flights to India. The Indian Embassy has indicated that limited operations have resumed at Riyadh airport, including services by flynas, while Saudi airlines are still conducting flights from Dammam, Jeddah, and Madinah.

Passengers planning to travel are advised to confirm their flight schedules directly with airlines before proceeding to the airport. The Indian expatriate community in Saudi Arabia is substantial, and the country remains a key destination for Indians travelling for Umrah.

While Akasa Air has extended its suspension until mid to late November, Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo have also halted services to various Saudi destinations until November 14. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the security landscape evolves.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share