Repeated attacks on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) have severely disrupted air travel in Saudi Arabia, with authorities extending the airport’s closure following deadly missile and drone strikes attributed to Yemen’s Houthi rebels.
The attacks have killed at least 13 people and injured more than 300, according to initial reports from Saudi authorities, with additional casualties reported following further strikes. Victims include Saudi citizens, foreign nationals and an American citizen. Reuters reported on Monday that authorities kept the airport closed as they assessed the security situation.
The escalating violence has prompted international travel warnings and widespread flight disruptions, raising concerns for travelers with itineraries through the Saudi capital.
U.S. Mission Urges Americans to Avoid Riyadh Airport
In a security alert issued Oct. 10, the U.S. Mission to Saudi Arabia urged American citizens to avoid the airport and its surrounding areas following the latest attacks.
“The U.S. Mission is aware of attacks on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on October 10 and strongly recommends all U.S. citizens avoid this airport and surrounding areas,” the alert stated.
The mission also warned travelers to anticipate possible flight cancellations, airspace closures and other disruptions. It advised passengers to check their flight status directly with their airline and the airport before traveling.
The alert also stated that U.S. government employees working in Saudi Arabia must obtain special authorization to use the airport. The U.S. Department of State maintains a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Saudi Arabia, citing the risk of drone and missile attacks, armed conflict and terrorism, among other concerns.
Flight Cancellations and Regional Disruptions
The airport closures have disrupted airline schedules, with carriers canceling and suspending services to Riyadh as the security situation evolves. Reuters reported Oct. 12 that approximately 82 percent of flights scheduled at the airport had been canceled, citing aviation analytics firm Cirium. Disruptions have also affected air travel elsewhere in Saudi Arabia.
Travel advisors with clients scheduled to connect through Riyadh or travel to Saudi Arabia should proactively review itineraries and monitor official updates from airlines, airport authorities and government travel advisories.
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