Philippine Airlines Temporarily Halts Manila-Riyadh Flights Amid Growing Safety Concerns.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) has cancelled two flights operating between Manila and Riyadh amid escalating security tensions in Saudi Arabia, following reported attacks on the capital’s airport claimed by Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthi movement.
The Philippines’ flag carrier confirmed that flight PR654 from Manila to Riyadh, scheduled for October 8, and return flight PR655 from Riyadh to Manila, scheduled for October 10, have been cancelled due to the evolving regional security situation.
In an official statement, the airline explained that the cancellations were made in response to recent developments affecting the region.
PAL said its operations teams are closely monitoring airport conditions and evaluating how the situation could affect upcoming flights.
The airline added that passengers impacted by the cancellations would be informed about available travel arrangements and alternative options.
Passenger and crew safety remains the airline’s highest priority, PAL emphasised.
The decision comes as security concerns intensify across Saudi Arabia following a series of reported attacks.
On Thursday, Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for launching a ballistic missile towards King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, raising further concerns about the safety of civilian aviation in the region.
The group’s claim had not been independently verified.
The Houthis’ latest claim of a missile attack targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has not yet been independently confirmed by Saudi authorities.
The reported incident follows earlier attacks on Riyadh and Abha airports on Wednesday, which resulted in three deaths and 36 injuries, according to Saudi civil aviation authorities.
In response to the attacks, the Saudi-led coalition announced that its forces had carried out strikes against 82 Houthi military sites across Yemen.
The escalating hostilities have raised further concerns about aviation safety, with the deteriorating regional security situation affecting airline operations and travel schedules.
What Filipino Travellers Need to Know
Philippine Airlines has not yet confirmed whether additional Manila-Riyadh flights scheduled after October 10 will be affected.
Passengers with upcoming reservations on the route are advised to regularly check PAL’s official flight-status updates and travel advisories before departing for the airport.
Travellers should also remain prepared for possible schedule adjustments, cancellations or alternative travel arrangements as the airline continues assessing security conditions.
The latest cancellations come just days after Philippine Airlines resumed its Riyadh services, following an earlier period when regional tensions appeared to be easing.
The renewed disruption highlights how rapidly aviation conditions can change as the broader US-Iran conflict continues to affect security across the Middle East.
For Filipino passengers travelling between Manila and Saudi Arabia, staying informed through official airline announcements remains essential as the situation develops.
