IndiGo, Air India Cancel Riyadh Flights Through October 10 After Houthi Attacks

Air India and IndiGo cancelled all flights to Riyadh through October 10 after Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacked Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport with ballistic missiles on October 8. One person died and eight were injured in the strikes. The Indian embassy issued an advisory asking nationals to remain alert and stay indoors. Passengers receive full refunds or rescheduling options.

Airlines halt operations as missile strikes hit Riyadh airport

Air India flight AI2243 from Delhi to Riyadh turned around mid-flight on October 8 and returned to Delhi after Houthi attacks. The airline cancelled all Riyadh services through October 10. Air India Express and IndiGo also suspended operations. An IndiGo flight from Hyderabad was diverted to Dammam. King Khalid International Airport saw almost half of departures cancelled by 1500 GMT on Thursday, with 31 more cancellations expected Friday across Saudi airports.

Houthis warn of further strikes on Saudi airspace

Yemen’s Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree claimed the group launched a ballistic missile at King Khalid International Airport on Thursday afternoon, saying it successfully hit its target and disrupted air traffic. The Houthis warned global airlines “for the last time” about operating in Saudi airspace, calling it a theatre for military operations. Saudi Arabia’s coalition intercepted two ballistic missiles headed toward Riyadh and one toward Khamis Mushait on Thursday.

Indian embassy issues safety advisory for nationals

The Embassy of India in Riyadh advised all Indian nationals to remain alert, stay indoors as necessary, and follow local authority instructions. The embassy and consulate in Jeddah continue normal operations. A 24/7 helpline through Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra remains available at 8002471234. India condemned the attacks on civilian infrastructure as “completely unacceptable” and expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia.

Stock impact and investor outlook

IndiGo (INDIGO.NS) fell 2.52% to 4,864.10 rupees on October 9 as flight cancellations ripple through earnings. Meyka grades the airline a C with a sell recommendation, citing negative ROE and ROA scores. The airline’s 12-month forecast stands at 5,814 rupees, implying downside from current levels if regional tensions persist.

Final Thoughts

IndiGo and Air India’s flight suspensions through October 10 signal near-term revenue loss as Houthi attacks disrupt Middle East travel. With Meyka grading IndiGo a C and the stock down 2.5%, investors should monitor whether operations resume as scheduled or extend further.

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