International
oi-Gaurav Sharma
Travel between India and Saudi Arabia is being impacted by rising tensions in West Asia, with some Indian airlines extending the cancellations of their flights to the Kingdom until October 24.
The latest decision was taken by Air India and Air India Express following attacks on civilian infrastructure in Saudi Arabia by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, including the capital Riyadh’s airport.
Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air extended flight cancellations to Saudi Arabia until October 24 due to Houthi rebel attacks on infrastructure, disrupting travel for Indian passengers and pilgrims.
IndiGo has extended cancellation of its Saudi routes till October 24, while Akasa Air suspended its flights to Riyadh up to October 24 and Jeddah till October 21.
The flights between India and Saudi are being cancelled or delayed after reports of aerial attacks on the capital city’s airport.
Air India said in a statement that a decision was taken on Saturday considering the current situation and it would offer its passengers as much flexibility as possible during the period of disruption.
It had earlier cancelled flights till October 20, while Air India Express had suspended its services till October 17.
Closure of Riyadh airport adds to confusion
The closure of the airport has created chaos for passengers with travel plans to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly those planning to make Umrah or a pilgrimage.
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh on Friday cautioned Indian citizens against going out in case of an aerial attack and advised to stay indoors. Those planning to travel to the Kingdom were asked to consider any cancellation of their flights and remain prepared for extended stay.
The closure of the airport in Riyadh was also reported in the advisory by the Indian Embassy. Meanwhile, other airports in Jeddah, Dammam and Medina were reported to be open, although with some disruptions.
The advisory also updated those affected by the attack on October 10 at the capital’s airport. It said two Indians continued to be in the intensive care unit, one was in the High Dependency Unit and three others were admitted to a normal ward.
Umrah pilgrims should recheck their travel options
The situation has led to advisories by the Indian government for Umrah and other pilgrims heading for Saudi Arabia.
The Indian Consulate in Jeddah advised those planning to go for Umrah during the next few days to reconsider their arrangements if uncertain about their travel option, particularly for those flying via Jeddah or Medina.
Indian nationals returning from Saudi Arabia urgently were asked to consider other options such as Bahrain, Kuwait or Qatar, provided they had the necessary visas.
Passengers are being advised to check the latest status of their flights directly with the airline before going to the airports as the schedule is subject to change by the airlines due to cancellations.
