Indian carriers suspend Riyadh flights following Houthi strike threats

Three major Indian airlines have suspended flights to Riyadh following security threats posed by Houthi militant attacks targeting airports in the Gulf region. IndiGo, Air India Express, and Akasa Air made the decision to cancel services to Saudi Arabia's capital as a precautionary measure.

The move comes as the Iran-backed Houthi movement has intensified attacks on aviation infrastructure across the Middle East, prompting regional carriers and international airlines to reassess their operational schedules. Airlines operating in the region have cited safety protocols and insurance considerations as key factors in their decision-making.

All three Indian carriers have announced passenger support measures in response to the flight cancellations. Affected travelers have been offered options to reschedule their bookings at no additional cost or receive full refunds, ensuring minimal financial impact on customers caught by the disruptions.

The suspensions reflect broader operational challenges facing airlines serving Middle Eastern routes amid heightened regional tensions. Industry observers expect carriers to maintain heightened vigilance regarding security developments before resuming normal scheduling to high-risk destinations.