Saudi Flights have faced major disruption after security incidents affected airports across Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Nearly 1,500 cancellations appeared across the three airports over Sunday and Monday. The disruption has affected domestic services, international connections, and religious travel. Meanwhile, several airlines have adjusted schedules as authorities assess airport safety and operational risks.
Riyadh experienced the most significant disruption among the three major aviation hubs. Flight tracking figures recorded 436 cancellations at King Khalid International Airport on Monday morning. That represented around 64 percent of its scheduled services. The airport had recorded 655 cancellations on Sunday, accounting for approximately 98 percent of scheduled flights.
Jeddah also faced substantial operational challenges. King Abdulaziz International Airport recorded 115 cancellations on Monday, representing 15 percent of scheduled flights. On Sunday, the airport reported 158 cancellations and 393 delays. Dammam’s King Fahd International Airport recorded 63 cancellations on Monday, equivalent to 27 percent of scheduled services. The airport had reported 58 cancellations and 115 delays the previous day.
Combined figures showed 871 cancellation listings on Sunday and another 614 on Monday. However, these totals may include overlapping flights connecting the three airports. Therefore, the figures do not necessarily represent unique flights across the entire network. Nevertheless, the data highlights the scale of disruption affecting Saudi aviation.
The incidents have also created difficulties for religious travellers. Umrah pilgrims faced uncertainty as airport operations changed and airlines cancelled services. Some passengers had prepared to board flights in Riyadh when an attack triggered panic inside the terminal. Meanwhile, Bangladesh officials reported that approximately 500 Bangladeshi passengers remained stranded in Riyadh following the incident.
Authorities also reported further attacks affecting airport facilities. One incident at Riyadh airport reportedly killed 13 people and injured more than 300. Another attack struck Terminal 4 on Sunday, killing one person and injuring 11 others, according to aviation authorities. Dammam airport also came under attack on Sunday evening. Officials continued safety inspections and damage assessments as the situation developed.
International airlines have responded by changing their schedules. Etihad Airways cancelled selected services between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam through October 13. Emirates also cancelled selected flights between Dubai and Saudi destinations. Additionally, flydubai extended cancellations on Riyadh routes through October 14.
Saudi citizens stranded in the UAE have also received assistance. Saudi Arabia’s consulate in Dubai arranged bus transportation for affected travellers. Meanwhile, Lufthansa Group suspended Riyadh services through October 16. Several Indian airlines also cancelled flights as regional travel conditions changed.
The United States Federal Aviation Administration issued a safety advisory for American operators. It urged airlines to exercise caution when flying to or over Saudi Arabia. The advisory cited military activity and possible interference with navigation systems. It remains effective through December 10.
The continuing disruption could affect airline schedules, connecting journeys, and travel plans across the region. Passengers may face delays while carriers review routes and operational conditions. Consequently, travellers should check directly with their airlines before heading to airports. Saudi Flights may continue to experience schedule changes until authorities confirm safer and more stable operating conditions.
