Air India and Air India Express have extended the suspension of flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam until November 7, while services connecting Jeddah will remain cancelled until October 31, amid escalating tensions in the region.The latest extension comes as other Indian carriers, including IndiGo and Akasa Air, have also curtailed operations to Saudi Arabian cities. The disruptions have affected travellers, including Indian Umrah pilgrims, prompting the Indian consulate in Jeddah to step up assistance for those facing cancellations and difficulties arranging alternative travel.
Rebooking, refunds for affected passengers
“In view of the prevailing situation in the region, Air India and Air India Express flights to and from Riyadh and Dammam will remain suspended until 7 November 2026, while services to and from Jeddah will remain suspended until 31 October 2026,” Air India said in a post on X.Passengers with confirmed bookings issued on or before October 24 can opt for flexible rebooking or a full refund upon cancellation.Air India passengers travelling to or from Riyadh and Dammam on dates up to November 7 can avail a one-time complimentary rebooking to or from any operational Air India station in Saudi Arabia, subject to availability, for travel until November 21. For Jeddah, the corresponding rebooking window runs until November 14 for passengers whose original travel dates fall on or before October 31.Air India Express is offering similar options, including alternative routes through operational stations in Saudi Arabia or Bahrain, subject to availability.IndiGo has extended the cancellation of flights to and from Jeddah, Dammam and Madinah until October 31. Its Riyadh services will also remain suspended until October 31.Akasa Air, meanwhile, has extended the suspension of flights to and from Jeddah until November 10 and Riyadh until November 30.
Indian consulate steps up assistance
The Consulate General of India in Jeddah has activated round-the-clock control rooms in Jeddah and Makkah to assist Indian nationals affected by the disruptions, particularly Umrah pilgrims.Working with Indian community associations and volunteers, the consulate is helping arrange food, essential medicines and other immediate relief. It is also coordinating with Indian airlines on refunds and connecting Umrah tour operators with carriers still operating flights to India.Alternative travel arrangements depend on seat availability, applicable fares and airline guidelines.
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