Saudia Pilot Captain Hamoud Ali Al-Kalthami Dies in Riyadh Airport Attack as Aircraft Sustains Damage on the Ground.
Riyadh: Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has confirmed the death of pilot Captain Hamoud Ali Al-Kalthami following an attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Thursday, according to a statement published on the airline’s official social media platforms.
The national carrier stated that Captain Al-Kalthami lost his life during the incident on October 8, 2026. However, the airline did not disclose the specific circumstances surrounding his death, and his exact position within the airline remains unconfirmed.
Saudia also reported that one of its aircraft sustained damage while parked on the ground at the airport. The airline clarified that no passengers were aboard the aircraft at the time of the incident.
In its statement, Saudia extended heartfelt condolences to Captain Al-Kalthami’s family, friends and colleagues, while acknowledging his dedication and valuable contributions during his service with the national airline.
The announcement follows confirmation from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) that King Khalid International Airport was struck in two separate attacks on Thursday.
According to GACA, the initial attack targeted airport infrastructure, while the subsequent strike damaged an aircraft belonging to Saudia.
The aviation authority confirmed that three Saudi nationals lost their lives in the attacks, while several Saudi citizens and expatriates of various nationalities sustained injuries. Those injured were transported to hospitals to receive medical treatment.
