Riyadh Air Evacuates Three Dreamliners Amid Missile Threats
In a swift response to escalating missile attacks, Riyadh Air successfully relocated three Boeing 787 Dreamliners from King Khalid International Airport on October 13.
Three Dreamliners were evacuated from Riyadh Airport within 25 minutes amid missile threats.
Riyadh Airport remains closed until October 17 due to ongoing Houthi attacks.
Riyadh Air has suspended all flights affecting 15 destinations until further notice.
On October 13, Riyadh Air executed an urgent evacuation of three Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as missile threats intensified. The aircraft were relocated to AlUla and Medina within a narrow timeframe of 25 minutes, reflecting the airline's immediate response to the escalating security situation.
The evacuation follows a series of missile and drone attacks targeting the airport, which have resulted in multiple casualties and significant damage. The first fatal incident occurred on October 7, and subsequent attacks on October 8 led to the deaths of three individuals, including a Saudia pilot. The most devastating strike happened on October 14, when a terminal was directly hit, resulting in 13 fatalities and numerous injuries.
Flight data indicates that the three Dreamliners, operating under flight numbers RX8001, RX8002, and RX8004, departed at 3:16 PM, 3:32 PM, and 3:39 PM local time, respectively. While there are unconfirmed reports of fighter jet escorts during the evacuation, both Riyadh Air and the Royal Saudi Air Force have not verified this information. The fourth Dreamliner was also repositioned from Jeddah to Lahore, Pakistan, as part of the airline's strategy to ensure safety.
The ongoing missile threats have forced Riyadh Air to suspend all operations, affecting its entire network of 15 destinations. The airline's website indicates that flights are canceled until at least October 17, with passengers allowed to change their travel plans without additional fees. This disruption comes just four months after Riyadh Air launched its inaugural service, highlighting the precarious situation the airline now faces.
Looking ahead, the resumption of flights will depend on the stabilization of the security environment around Riyadh Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a NOTAM advising caution for US carriers operating in the region, and major airlines have suspended services to Riyadh. The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
