After Air India Express, IndiGo cancels flights to Saudi Arabia:Akasa Air extends suspension too; affected passengers to get full refund on cancellation

India’s largest airline IndiGo has suspended all flights to and from four major Saudi Arabian cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah—until October 17, 2026. The decision follows escalating security concerns in Saudi Arabia after drone and missile strikes targeted regional airport infrastructure. The low-cost carrier operates multiple daily flights from key Indian metros to Saudi commercial hubs and religious centers. In an official customer advisory, IndiGo stated that the decision was taken as a precautionary measure due to the evolving security environment in the region. The airline added that passenger safety remains its top priority and that its operations team is coordinating with civil aviation authorities. Earlier, Air India Express had also cancelled flights to and from Riyadh until 10 October. In view of the evolving situation in the region, we have cancelled flights to and from Riyadh until 10 October. Affected guests are being offered complimentary rescheduling or a full refund on cancellation. We continue to monitor the situation closely. -Air India Express Akasa Air extends suspension too Another air carrier, Akasa Air said that In view of the escalating security situation in the Middle East and the associated risks to safe flight operations, it has extended the suspension of all flights to and from Riyadh and Jeddah until October 17, 2026. Security Situation Behind Flight Cancellations The disruptions began after reports of ballistic missile and drone attacks targeting airport infrastructure near King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha airport. The attacks were claimed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels amid renewed regional hostilities. Airlines are reviewing the situation on a daily basis in consultation with the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Saudi aviation regulatory authorities. Flight operations will resume only after civil aviation bodies declare Saudi airspace and airports safe for commercial air traffic. Impact on Passengers The flight cancellations affect thousands of Indian workers, business travelers, and pilgrims traveling between India and Saudi Arabia. Cities like Jeddah and Madinah are major entry points for Umrah pilgrims, while Riyadh and Dammam house large Indian expatriate populations. All affected airlines have opened dedicated helpline desks and automated portal options for passengers. All affected airlines have opened dedicated helpline desks and automated portal options for passengers. Passengers holding confirmed tickets on cancelled flights can choose either: Full Refund: Complete waiver of cancellation fees with 100% refund processed back to the original payment source. Free Rescheduling: Complimentary booking on alternative dates once flight operations resume, without paying fare differences for equivalent seats.