Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah flights hit: Air India, IndiGo extend suspensions, Akasa follows suit - The Times of India

Air India announced that its services to Riyadh, Dammam and Jeddah will remain suspended for an indefinite period, citing operational challenges that have arisen in recent weeks. IndiGo, another major carrier, confirmed a similar extension of its suspension, while Akasa, a newer entrant in the market, also halted its flights to the three Saudi cities. The decision impacts a large number of passengers, including Indian expatriates working in the Gulf, pilgrims planning to perform Hajj or Umrah, and tourists who travel for business or leisure.

The suspension comes at a time when demand for travel to Saudi Arabia has been high, driven by seasonal pilgrimage schedules and a steady flow of labor migration. Airlines have warned that the lack of clear guidance on airspace usage and airport operations has made it difficult to resume services safely. Passengers with existing bookings are being offered refunds or re‑booking options on alternative routes, but many face uncertainty about when normal schedules will return.

For Indian readers, the disruption underscores the reliance on air connectivity for economic and cultural ties with the Middle East. A large segment of India’s overseas workforce resides in Saudi Arabia, and any interruption can affect remittance flows and family reunions. The situation also highlights the need for airlines and regulators to coordinate closely to address any underlying issues that led to the suspension, ensuring that future travel remains reliable and affordable for Indian travelers.