Riyadh airport has extended its suspension of operations, following deadly attacks by Houthi forces. The decision, announced Monday, underscores the growing security risks in the region and threatens to disrupt air travel across Saudi airspace.
What prompted the extension
The extension comes after a series of Houthi attacks that killed at least 12 people, according to local officials. The attacks targeted key infrastructure near the capital, prompting authorities to reassess security protocols at the airport. While the exact duration of the suspension remains unclear, airport officials say it will last until further notice.
Riyadh's airport is a major hub for both domestic and international carriers, handling millions of passengers annually. Its closure has already forced airlines to reroute flights, adding hours to journeys between Europe and Asia. Several carriers, including Saudia and flynas, have canceled flights or diverted them to Jeddah and Dammam.
Regional tensions on the rise
The Houthi attacks are the latest in a string of incidents that have escalated tensions in the region. In recent weeks, the group has claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes on Saudi targets, including oil facilities and military bases. The extension of the Riyadh airport suspension signals that Saudi authorities are bracing for more violence.
Neighboring countries are also on high alert. The United Arab Emirates has increased patrols in its airspace, and Kuwait has warned airlines to avoid certain routes. The conflict, which has been ongoing for years, shows no signs of abating, and the humanitarian toll continues to mount.
Impact on global aviation
The disruption at Riyadh airport could have ripple effects on global aviation. Saudi airspace is a critical corridor for flights between Europe and Asia, and any prolonged closure would force airlines to take longer, more expensive routes. That could lead to higher ticket prices and longer travel times for passengers worldwide.
Industry groups are monitoring the situation closely. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has not issued a formal advisory, but individual airlines are making their own assessments. Some, like Emirates and Qatar Airways, have adjusted their schedules to avoid Saudi airspace entirely.
For now, the focus is on ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. Riyadh airport officials say they are working with security forces to secure the area and will resume operations as soon as it is safe to do so. But with the Houthi threat persisting, that day may be a long way off.
