Flight Cancellations and Rising Fares Disrupt Kerala Expats' Plans
Kerala expatriates face significant travel disruptions due to Houthi attacks, leading to cancelled flights and soaring ticket prices.
Thousands of Malayali expatriates are stranded due to flight cancellations linked to Houthi attacks.
Air India and other airlines have suspended services to Saudi Arabia, complicating travel plans.
Riyadh airport's closure has led to soaring ticket prices and increased demand for alternative routes.
The ongoing conflict in Yemen has severely impacted travel for Kerala expatriates, particularly following recent Houthi attacks on Saudi airports. Abhilash, a Malayali worker from Malappuram, was scheduled to return home last week but had to cancel his plans due to disruptions at Riyadh airport. He is among many expatriates facing uncertainty regarding their travel schedules as flights continue to be cancelled or rescheduled.
The turmoil began on October 8, when attacks targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport, leading to the cancellation of several flights connecting Kerala with Saudi Arabia. Air India cancelled five flights from Kochi on October 9, and further disruptions followed, prompting Air India Express to suspend its services until October 12. The closure of Riyadh airport has since been extended, with a review set for October 24, leaving many travelers in limbo.
The situation has escalated as Indian airlines have extended their flight suspensions to and from Saudi Arabia, despite some airports remaining operational. Air India, Air India Express, and IndiGo have halted services until October 24, while Akasa Air has suspended flights until October 27. The Indian Embassy has advised nationals needing urgent travel to consider alternative routes through Bahrain, Kuwait, or Qatar, further complicating travel logistics.
For many expatriates, the closure of Riyadh airport has created significant challenges, as it is a primary gateway for travel between Kerala and Saudi Arabia. Jamsheer Mankada, a representative of the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre, noted that thousands of Malayalis have been affected, with many facing increased costs due to rising ticket prices and additional expenses related to visa cancellations. The demand for flights to Jeddah has surged, pushing prices up to four times their usual rates.
As the crisis continues, the uncertainty surrounding air travel remains a pressing concern for expatriates. With the next review of Riyadh airport's status approaching, many are left wondering when normal operations will resume. The situation has also impacted Umrah pilgrims, with many stranded in Saudi Arabia due to the ongoing disruptions. Until clarity is achieved, thousands of expatriates remain in a precarious position, anxiously awaiting updates on their travel plans.
