Air India and Air India Express have temporarily suspended flights to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam until October 24, disrupting travel plans for passengers booked on connecting services from Hyderabad amid heightened security risks in West Asia.
The airlines announced the cancellations on their social media handles, citing the prevailing situation and attacks involving missiles and drones targeting Saudi airports, including King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The suspension applies to services operated by both airlines on the affected routes.
Officials clarified that neither carrier operates direct flights from Hyderabad to Jeddah, Riyadh or Dammam. However, passengers from the city who hold connecting bookings to these destinations are affected by the temporary suspension. The airlines said details about cancellations and rebooking options were being communicated directly to passengers.
“ We understand that these disruptions may affect our guests’ travel plans and are committed to providing as much flexibility as possible during this period,” the airlines said in their notice.
Passengers with confirmed bookings issued on or before October 15, 2026, for travel between October 9 and October 25, 2026, are eligible for a one-time complimentary date change on the respective airline. The revised travel date can be moved up to November 10, 2026, subject to the applicable arrangements communicated by the airline.
Passengers who do not wish to retain their original sector may also request rebooking from an alternative station in the Gulf Cooperation Council region served by the relevant airline. Air India passengers may rebook to or from Dubai or Doha. Air India Express has listed Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Bahrain, Doha, Dubai, Kuwait, Muscat, Ras Al Khaimah, Salalah and Sharjah as alternative stations, subject to seat availability.
Travellers choosing an alternative departure or arrival station will have to make their own arrangements to reach that airport. They must also meet the visa and entry requirements applicable to the country from which they choose to travel.
Passengers whose flights have been cancelled and who do not wish to travel may instead opt for a full refund. The airlines have advised affected guests to monitor direct communications regarding their bookings and the available options while the temporary suspension remains in force.
The suspension is currently scheduled to continue through October 24, while eligible date changes may be made for travel up to November 10, 2026.
