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“Delta Air Lines” will postpone the launch of nonstop flights between Atlanta and Riyadh until March 2027 following deadly Houthi attacks on the Saudi capital’s main airport, the airline said Monday.
The carrier said passenger and employee safety guides its operational decisions. It is monitoring developments and remains in contact with government and aviation partners, including “Saudia” and “Riyadh Air”.
The route was scheduled to start on Oct. 23. It would have been “Delta Air Lines’” first direct connection to Saudi Arabia and the first nonstop service between the United States and Riyadh operated by a US airline.
Passengers with affected bookings can review rebooking and refund options on the airline’s website or app. “Delta Air Lines” has also issued a travel waiver for Riyadh, including refunds for the unused portion of affected trips.
Houthi attacks on King Khalid International Airport killed 12 people and injured hundreds, prompting flight suspensions and the airport’s closure.
The US Federal Aviation Administration issued an advisory on Sunday urging US operators to exercise caution in the Jeddah Flight Information Region amid ongoing military activity and possible interference with global navigation satellite systems. It warned that the threats could affect aircraft at any altitude, including during overflight, arrival and departure.
The advisory is effective from Oct. 11 to Dec. 10 and applies to US airlines and commercial operators, specified FAA-certified pilots and US-registered civilian aircraft, subject to exceptions involving foreign carriers. It advises caution but does not prohibit flights in the affected airspace.
