Kerala expats in limbo as Houthi strikes disrupt Saudi air travel.
Dubai: Repeated flight cancellations and temporary suspensions of services to Saudi Arabia have disrupted travel plans for Kerala expatriates, leaving passengers uncertain about departures, return journeys and alternative bookings amid escalating regional tensions.
The disruptions have affected flights connecting Kerala with Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam, forcing passengers to rearrange their travel plans. Fares on alternative routes are also a concern, although the reports reviewed have not confirmed specific price increases.
According to Manorama Online, airlines have cancelled or suspended multiple services between Kerala and Saudi Arabia amid security concerns linked to Houthi attacks and the wider regional conflict.
Cancellations hit Kerala airports
Kozhikode International Airport in Karipur faced significant disruption on October 16, when 22 flights connecting the airport with Gulf destinations were cancelled. The cancellations affected 12 arrivals and 10 departures, involving services operated by Air India Express, IndiGo, Saudia, Flynas and Akasa Air.
Cochin International Airport also reported cancellations over several days. According to airport authorities cited by Manorama Online, 10 services connecting Kochi with Gulf destinations were cancelled between October 11 and 13, including flights to Riyadh, Jeddah and Doha.
Air India, IndiGo suspend Saudi services
Air India and Air India Express temporarily suspended flights to and from Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam until October 24, according to a report published by Manorama Online on October 17.
IndiGo also suspended services to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and Medina until October 24, while its Jeddah services were reported suspended until October 21. The disruptions have added to uncertainty for passengers travelling between India and Saudi Arabia.
Passengers advised to check flight status
Airports and airlines have advised passengers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport and contact their carriers regarding rebooking options and refunds. Travellers should also confirm the latest service updates directly with their airlines, as schedules and suspension periods may change.
Air India and Air India Express offered affected passengers the option to reschedule eligible bookings or request refunds. Alternative routes via other Gulf airports may also be available, depending on seat availability, visa requirements and airline policies. Passengers using alternative airports may need to arrange their own onward transport.
For Kerala expatriates travelling to Saudi Arabia for work, returning home on leave or heading back to their jobs after a visit, the uncertainty makes it particularly important to check flight updates before setting off.
Passengers should follow the latest notifications from their airlines and airport authorities, as cancellation schedules and travel arrangements may change depending on the evolving security situation.
