Air India Suspends All Flights to Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah Until October 20

Air India has announced the cancellation of all flights to and from Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah until October 20, 2026, due to the evolving situation in Saudi Arabia. The airline is closely monitoring developments to ensure the safe resumption of operations. The decision follows recent disruptions caused by reports of explosions, including a significant blast at Riyadh's international airport.

In light of the cancellations, Air India has assured affected passengers that they will receive full refunds. The airline has outlined several methods for obtaining refunds, including online requests through their website, contacting travel agents, or visiting ticketing offices. Passengers can also check the status of their refunds via the airline's support portal.

The cancellations by Air India are part of a broader trend, as multiple international airlines have adjusted their flight schedules in response to the ongoing conflict in the region. Air France-KLM has extended its suspension of flights to Riyadh until the end of October, while Akasa Air and IndiGo have also halted services to the city. Other airlines, including Etihad Airways and Gulf Air, have similarly suspended flights to and from various Saudi cities.

The impact of these cancellations extends beyond immediate travel disruptions, as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to create uncertainty in the aviation industry. Airlines are facing heightened operational pressures, prompting Air India to establish a dedicated team to identify cost-saving measures. The airline's CEO emphasized the need for careful spending and accountability among employees as they navigate these challenges.

Looking ahead, the situation remains fluid, with airlines continuously evaluating their operations in light of the conflict. Passengers are advised to stay informed about their flight statuses and refund options as the airline industry adapts to these unprecedented circumstances.