Airlines suspend Kerala-Saudi Arabia flights amid Middle East tensions

Several airlines operating flights between Kochi and Saudi Arabia have suspended services through October 13 in response to escalating tensions in West Asia, according to Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL). The airport operator said carriers had reported cancellations spanning October 11-13 due to the evolving security situation in the region.

The suspensions affect one of India's busiest international aviation corridors, with Kochi serving as a major hub for passenger and cargo traffic between Kerala and the Gulf states. The city's airport typically handles significant volumes of expatriate workers, business travellers, and tourists moving between India and Saudi Arabia.

CIAL did not specify which airlines had implemented the cancellations or provide details on the number of affected flights. The airport authority indicated the suspensions were precautionary measures taken by individual carriers in response to current geopolitical developments.

The cancellations underscore how regional instability continues to disrupt civil aviation operations across South Asia. Airlines have increasingly adopted cautious approaches to flight operations in sensitive airspace, with many carriers implementing temporary route adjustments or service suspensions during periods of heightened tensions.

Travellers booked on affected services are advised to contact their respective airlines for rebooking options and compensation details. CIAL said it is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as circumstances evolve.