Air India, IndiGo and Air India Express have suspended flights to and from Riyadh until October 10, citing the worsening security situation in and around Saudi Arabia.

The airlines said passengers booked on the affected services would be eligible for either complimentary rescheduling or a full refund, depending on their preference.

Air India Express said the decision was taken after assessing the rapidly changing conditions in the region.

“In view of the evolving situation in the region, we have cancelled flights to and from Riyadh until October 10. Affected guests are being offered complimentary rescheduling or a full refund on cancellation. We continue to monitor the situation closely,” an airline spokesperson said.

Riyadh airport issues advisory

The suspension comes after multiple explosions were heard over Riyadh early Thursday, prompting King Khalid International Airport to advise passengers to verify their flight status before travelling to the airport.

In a statement posted on X, the airport urged travellers to contact their respective airlines directly for the latest information on their flights.

The advisory comes amid heightened security concerns following a series of attacks claimed by Iran-backed Houthi rebels targeting locations in Saudi Arabia.

Houthis warn airlines

The Houthis have in recent days claimed attacks involving Saudi airports, military installations and oil infrastructure.

Early Thursday, the group issued a warning to international airlines operating in Saudi airspace, describing the country as a potential theatre for its military operations and cautioning carriers about the risks of continuing flights.

The latest developments have raised concerns over the safety of civilian aviation in the region, prompting airlines to reassess their operations.

Three killed in recent attacks

Saudi authorities said on Wednesday that Houthi-claimed attacks targeting Riyadh and Abha airports had killed three people.

The reported fatalities mark the first deaths since Saudi Arabia and allied Yemeni forces began a major ground and air campaign against the Houthis.

With the security situation continuing to evolve, airlines are monitoring developments before deciding whether flight operations to Riyadh can resume after October 10.