Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport cancelled 86% of its scheduled flights between October 8 and 25 amid attacks attributed to Yemen’s Houthi militia, according to a Reuters report. The disruptions affected thousands of flights serving Saudi Arabia’s capital.
Reuters reported that airlines had scheduled 4,736 flights at the airport during the period. Of these, 4,071 were cancelled, leaving air travel significantly disrupted over the 18-day period.
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Airport operations have partially resumed, with domestic flights restarting. However, several international airlines have suspended their services to Riyadh until November, limiting international travel options for passengers.
US airline Delta Air Lines has postponed its Riyadh flights until next year, according to the report. The extended suspension highlights the continuing impact of security concerns on airline schedules and travel plans.
The disruption has also affected major business activities in Saudi Arabia. The country’s prominent investment conference has been postponed until 2027, according to the report, although further details about the decision were not provided.
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The large number of cancellations has created significant challenges for passengers and airlines operating through Riyadh. Travellers may face delays, schedule changes and the need to make alternative arrangements while services remain limited.
Although domestic flights have resumed, the status of international services remains uncertain for many routes. Airlines are expected to determine their schedules according to the prevailing situation and operational considerations. The report did not provide details about the full extent of the attacks or the specific incidents linked to individual cancellations.