18 October,2026 08:10 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Passengers affected by the cancellations can choose a full refund, which will be credited to the original source of payment within seven days, or reschedule their journeys at no additional cost. Representational Pic
Akasa Air on Sunday extended the suspension of all flights to and from Riyadh and Jeddah until October 27, citing escalating security concerns in the Middle East and prioritising the safety of passengers and crew.
In a post on X, the airline said the decision was taken after a careful assessment of the prevailing security situation and the risks it posed to safe flight operations.
The carrier said it was closely monitoring developments and assessing the situation in real time.
Passengers affected by the cancellations can choose a full refund, which will be credited to the original source of payment within seven days, or reschedule their journeys at no additional cost. Passengers who booked their tickets through travel partners have been advised to contact them directly for assistance.
"The safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority," Akasa Air said.
The extension comes amid heightened security concerns in Saudi Arabia following reported drone and missile attacks by Yemen's Houthi rebels. The developments have prompted airlines to reassess flight operations to and from the country.
Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh on Sunday urged Indian nationals residing in Saudi Arabia to follow revised emergency safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
The advisory asked residents to remain indoors until the danger passes and maintain a safe distance from windows and glass structures. It also advised them to avoid balconies, rooftops, large gatherings and hazardous areas.
Indian nationals were further cautioned against photographing or sharing information related to security incidents. The embassy urged citizens to follow instructions issued by Saudi authorities through official communication channels.
According to the guidelines, residents can dial 911 for emergencies in Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province. In other parts of Saudi Arabia, the emergency number is 998.
Earlier, Indian carriers, including IndiGo and Air India, had also suspended flights to several Saudi cities amid the evolving security situation.
The developments follow an attack on October 10 at Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport that killed an Indian national and injured several others. Following the incident, Indian diplomatic officials reiterated precautionary measures for Indian citizens residing in the country.
(With ANI inputs)
