Riyadh’s Airport Is Back, but Most Airlines Aren’t Yet

Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport was scheduled to reopen on October 17 after a closure that followed rocket attacks earlier this month. One attack on October 12 reportedly killed one person and injured 11, and the FAA warned U.S. airlines about safety risks in and near Saudi Arabia the next day. A reopened runway, though, does not mean a full departure board. Each airline decides for itself when its crews and aircraft return, so travelers with Saudi trips booked should confirm directly with their carrier rather than assuming normal service.

The clearest sign of caution came from Delta, which announced on October 12 that it is pushing the start of its planned Atlanta-Riyadh nonstop to March 2027. The airline cited evolving developments in the region and said Saudi Arabia remains an important market it is committed to serving long term. Customers with affected bookings can rebook or request a refund of the unflown portion through the Delta app or delta.com, and a travel waiver for Riyadh is in place.

Others are staying away too. Qatar Airways temporarily suspended flights to Riyadh and Dammam, and Philippine Airlines extended its Riyadh suspension through November 29, according to Reuters reporting summarized by industry trackers. Even Saudi Arabia’s own startup carrier, Riyadh Air, moved its new Boeing 787 Dreamliners out of its home hub after the attacks and has not said when flights will resume.

For anyone who has to go, the practical advice is simple. Check the airline’s own notices close to departure, keep proof of any cancellation, and be wary of non-refundable fares until the picture settles. The State Department’s separate Saudi warning, which already covers more than missiles, remains the best official reference for the risks on the ground.

Sources: Upgraded Points, Delta News Hub