King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, faced major flight disruptions on Thursday after Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed to have struck the airport with a ballistic missile. The incident came amid escalating hostilities between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia, with reports of explosions, fire and smoke at the airport.
Three people briefed on the matter told Reuters that a commercial aircraft belonging to Saudi carrier Saudia was heavily damaged after catching fire while parked at a terminal. The damage was reportedly caused by shrapnel from an intercepted missile or another projectile.
No passengers were believed to be aboard the aircraft at the time, although the possibility of injuries could not be ruled out. Saudi Arabia did not immediately confirm the Houthis’ claim of an airport strike. The security situation has also affected air travel, with several international airlines suspending services to Riyadh.
Flight-tracking data showed widespread cancellations and delays, while the airport urged passengers to check directly with their airlines before travelling. Here is what travellers need to know about the reported attack, affected flights and precautions to take before heading to the airport.
Riyadh Airport Attack FAQs
FAQs
What happened at King Khalid International Airport?
Houthis claimed they had targeted Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport with a ballistic missile. Explosions were heard across the Saudi capital on Thursday, including a large blast at King Khalid International Airport. Speaking with the Associated Press, a witness said that fire and ambulance crews were sent to the airport, while footage verified by Reuters showed flames and thick black smoke rising from the site. Reuters, citing three people familiar with the incident, reported that a Saudia Airlines aircraft caught fire while parked at a terminal and was heavily damaged. The reported damage was attributed to shrapnel from an intercepted missile or another projectile.
Were there casualties in the Riyadh airport incident?
Three people who spoke to Reuters said no passengers were believed to have been aboard the damaged Saudia aircraft when the incident occurred. However, they could not rule out the possibility of injuries. Separately, Saudi officials said attacks on Riyadh and Abha airports earlier in the week had killed three people.
Which airlines have cancelled flights to Riyadh?
Several airlines announced cancellations or suspensions because of the evolving security situation. Lufthansa Group suspended its flights to Riyadh until October 16, citing the evolving situation in the Middle East. Air India and IndiGo also cancelled their flights to and from Riyadh until October 10. Air India Express also suspended services on the route until October 10, offering affected passengers complimentary rescheduling or a full refund if they cancel their bookings. Akasa Air has also cancelled flights to and from Riyadh until October 10. Airlines may revise their schedules as the situation develops. Passengers should confirm the latest information directly with their airline.
How many flights have been affected?
Flight-tracking and aviation analytics data indicated widespread disruption at Riyadh airport on Thursday. According to data compiled by aviation analytics company Cirium, around 49.7% of departures from Riyadh airport had been cancelled by 1500 GMT on Thursday. The company also projected 31 additional cancellations across Saudi airports for Friday. According to flight-tracking portals cited by NDTV, at least 333 flights connecting with Riyadh were cancelled globally.
What should passengers travelling to Riyadh do?
Passengers travelling to or from Riyadh should check their flight status with the airline through its official website or app before leaving for the airport. They should also confirm any cancellations or delays directly with the airline rather than assuming their flight will operate as scheduled based on the original booking confirmation. Passengers should continue monitoring updates from airlines, airport authorities and relevant government agencies for the latest information on flight operations and security conditions.
What should passengers do if their flight is cancelled?
Passengers should contact their airline to confirm the cancellation and ask about rescheduling, refunds or alternative routes. Passengers should retain their booking details and any cancellation notifications while arranging alternative travel.
Why are the Houthis targeting Saudi Arabia?
The Houthis are targeting Saudi Arabia to increase pressure on Riyadh over its military campaign in Yemen.
Where can travellers get the latest updates?
Travellers can check King Khalid International Airport’s official announcements and their airline’s website for the latest flight information. They should also monitor advisories issued by relevant government authorities and contact their country’s embassy or consulate in Saudi Arabia, if necessary. As flight schedules and security conditions may change quickly, passengers are advised to verify the latest information shortly before departure.
