Flight services connecting Kerala and Saudi Arabia have been disrupted following attacks on airports in the kingdom claimed by Yemen’s Houthi group. Several services were cancelled at Kochi and Kozhikode airports, affecting passengers travelling between Kerala and Riyadh.
Air India Express announced the cancellation of all flights to and from Riyadh connecting Kochi, Kozhikode and Kannur until October 12. The suspension had been in effect since Thursday. Akasa Air also cancelled its Kochi-Jeddah service on Friday.
At Kochi airport, five flights connecting Riyadh and Jeddah were cancelled on Friday. These included two arrivals from Riyadh and three departures to Riyadh and Jeddah.
Meanwhile, Flynas and Saudia continued operating their Riyadh services at Kochi and Kozhikode, although some flights faced delays. Services between Thiruvananthapuram and Dammam were delayed but had not been cancelled, according to the report.
Air India Express said affected passengers could reschedule their journeys without additional charges or opt for a full refund. Travellers have been advised to check with their airlines for updated flight status before heading to the airport.
The disruptions follow attacks on Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and Abha International Airport. The incidents have raised security concerns and prompted several airlines to suspend or alter services to Saudi Arabia. Saudi authorities have reported casualties, while the Indian Embassy in Riyadh has advised Indian nationals to remain vigilant and follow local authorities’ instructions.
The cancellations could affect a large number of Malayali expatriates and their families. Passengers travelling to Saudi Arabia in the coming days are advised to monitor airline announcements and confirm their bookings before departure.
