Indian airlines extend flight suspensions to Saudi Arabia amid security concerns
Akasa Air, Air India, and IndiGo have suspended services to several Saudi destinations due to ongoing security issues.
Flight disruptions between India and Saudi Arabia are continuing, with Akasa Air extending its service suspension to Jeddah until November 18 on Sunday, according to The Hindu. The airline also stated that flights to and from Riyadh will remain suspended until November 30.
This follows an announcement two days ago by Air India and Air India Express that their flights to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Dammam would be suspended until November 14. IndiGo has also suspended services to various Saudi locations until November 14.
The disruptions occur amid attacks on critical infrastructure and civilian sites in the kingdom. Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels have taken credit for multiple strikes against Saudi airports and energy facilities using drones and missiles.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh reported that an attack on King Fahd International Airport in Dammam on October 21 resulted in the death of one Indian national and injured two others. Additionally, an Indian national was injured during an attack on the Shaybah oil field in the Eastern Province.
The Indian Embassy has advised citizens to remain vigilant and stay indoors during aerial attacks. Meanwhile, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah is working with authorities and airlines to assist Indian nationals and Umrah pilgrims.
While Indian carriers have halted many services, Saudi airlines continue to operate flights from Dammam, Jeddah, and Madinah, as well as India-bound flynas services from Riyadh.
