Etihad Airways has halted all flights to and from Riyadh until October 19 due to the temporary closure of the airport. Passengers are advised to check their booking status and monitor official airline updates for further travel information.
Etihad Suspends Flights to Riyadh Through October 19 Following Airport Closure.
Etihad Extends Riyadh Flight Suspension Until October 19 Amid Regional Disruptions
Etihad Airways has extended the suspension of its flights between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh until October 19 following the closure of the Saudi capital’s main airport amid ongoing regional security concerns.
The Abu Dhabi-based airline cited “regional disruption” as the reason for the cancellations. It has also suspended services connecting Abu Dhabi with the Saudi cities of Jeddah and Dammam until October 14.
The latest announcement comes after several days of disruption to air travel across Saudi Arabia, with airlines adjusting their schedules in response to security developments and restrictions affecting airport operations.
Riyadh Airport Closure Disrupts Flight Operations
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has experienced significant operational disruption following reported attacks attributed to the Houthi movement. The repeated incidents have affected flight schedules and prompted airlines to cancel or suspend services.
According to a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM), Riyadh airport is scheduled to remain closed until October 17. Saudi aviation authorities have also reported fresh injuries following an attack on Sunday.
The disruption has extended beyond the capital, affecting airport operations in Jeddah, Dammam and other locations across the kingdom. Several airlines have been forced to revise their schedules, while passengers face uncertainty over departure times and travel arrangements.
The Houthis have claimed responsibility for several strikes, adding to concerns over the security situation and its impact on regional aviation.
Air France Also Suspends Dubai and Riyadh Services
Etihad is not the only airline adjusting its operations in response to the regional situation. French carrier Air France has suspended flights to Dubai and Riyadh until October 31.
The airline said it was closely monitoring developments and assessing the situation in real time before making decisions about its services.
The extended suspension means passengers scheduled to travel on the affected routes may need to reconsider their plans or make alternative arrangements. Air France has said affected customers are being contacted individually and provided with information about their travel options.
Further changes to flight schedules remain possible as airlines continue evaluating security conditions and receiving updates from aviation authorities.
Passengers Urged to Check Flight Status Before Travelling
Travellers planning to fly to or from Saudi Arabia and other affected destinations have been advised to verify their flight details directly with their airlines before leaving for the airport.
Passengers should not assume that previously scheduled services will operate as planned, as cancellations and timetable changes may continue while the situation remains uncertain.
Etihad Airways has encouraged customers to visit its official website, etihad.com, to check the latest flight information and confirm their booking status before travelling.
Those requiring assistance can use the airline’s online help section, which provides access to customer support options, including local telephone numbers, live chat and social media channels.
Air France has also said it is contacting passengers affected by its cancellations to explain the arrangements available for their journeys.
With airport operations and airline schedules subject to further changes, travellers are advised to rely on official airline announcements and relevant aviation authority updates for the latest information.
