IndiGo extends flight cancellations to Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah amid security concerns

IndiGo on Friday extended the suspension of flights to and from Riyadh until October 31 and to and from Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah until October 27 amid heightened security concerns in Saudi Arabia.

"In view of the evolving security situation and following a careful assessment, IndiGo flights to and from Riyadh will remain cancelled until 31 October 2026 (inclusive), while flights to and from Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah will remain cancelled until 27 October 2026 (inclusive)," the airline said in a travel advisory posted on X.

The airline said the safety and well-being of its customers and crew remained its "highest priority" and that it was closely monitoring developments and coordinating with the relevant authorities.

Affected customers are being notified through the contact details provided at the time of booking, IndiGo said, advising passengers to check their flight status on its website before proceeding to the airport.

The latest extension comes after IndiGo had earlier extended the cancellation of flights to and from Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah until October 24.

Akasa Air has also extended the suspension of all flights to and from Riyadh and Jeddah until October 27.

"This decision follows a careful assessment of the situation, with safety remaining our primary consideration," Akasa Air said in an advisory on October 18.

Passengers affected by the cancellations can opt for a full refund, to be credited to the original source of payment within seven days, or reschedule their travel at no additional cost, the airline said.

Passengers who booked through travel partners have been advised to contact them directly for assistance.

The flight suspensions come amid heightened security concerns following attacks claimed by Yemen's Houthi group on Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport.

Air India, IndiGo and Akasa Air had initially suspended flights to Saudi Arabian cities until October 17 before extending the cancellations to October 24.

Air India has offered flexibility to affected passengers, including a one-time complimentary date change for eligible bookings and full refunds for those whose flights were cancelled and who did not wish to travel.