IndiGo announces further restrictions as Air India Group and Akasa Air maintain service suspensions.
Indian airlines have extended flight suspensions to several Saudi Arabian destinations as continuing regional security concerns disrupt air travel between the two countries.
IndiGo announced on 10 November that flights to and from Jeddah and Madinah would remain suspended through 21 November 2026, while services to Riyadh and Dammam would remain suspended through 30 November.
The airline said the decision followed an assessment of prevailing safety and security conditions, with passenger and crew safety remaining its priority.
Other Indian Carriers Maintain Restrictions
Air India and Air India Express had previously announced that services to and from Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam would remain suspended through 14 November 2026.
Akasa Air has also extended its flight suspensions, with Jeddah services halted through 18 November and Riyadh operations suspended through 30 November.
The differing suspension periods reflect individual airline assessments of the regional operating environment.
Passenger Travel and Alternative Arrangements
The disruptions have affected travellers between India and Saudi Arabia, including business passengers, expatriates and those undertaking religious journeys.
IndiGo has been notifying affected customers and providing assistance with refunds, rebooking and alternative travel arrangements.
Akasa Air has offered affected passengers full refunds or complimentary rescheduling. Under its announced arrangements, refunds are to be credited to the original payment method within seven days.
Air India and Air India Express have also introduced special arrangements for eligible passengers. These include a one-time complimentary rebooking, subject to availability, for travel through 29 November, or a full refund upon cancellation.
Meanwhile, Saudi carriers have continued selected services between the two countries, providing additional travel options on certain routes.
Regional Security Challenges
The suspensions follow heightened security concerns across Saudi Arabia, where reported missile and drone attacks have prompted airlines to reassess flight schedules and operating conditions.
Such developments present operational challenges for international carriers, particularly when airport security conditions, airspace availability and flight planning requirements remain uncertain.
The restrictions illustrate how regional instability can affect international connectivity even when individual airports continue operating.
Airlines are expected to review their schedules as conditions evolve, with further adjustments possible before the announced suspension periods expire.
Passengers travelling between India and Saudi Arabia are advised to confirm their flight status and applicable rebooking arrangements directly with their airline before departure.
Sources: IndiGo advisory, 10 November 2026; Akasa Air advisory, 1 November 2026; Air India and Air India Express advisory, 30 October 2026; Business Standard, The New Indian Express and Gulf News.
