Saudia Joins Flynas, Air France, Akasa Air, Cathay Pacific, Aegean Airlines, Flyadeal, and More in Temporarily Suspending Flights to Bahrain, Offering Limited Travel Options to Saudi Arabia for Stranded Citizens

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In light of the ongoing airspace closures and disruptions across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Saudia, along with Flynas, Air France, Akasa Air, Cathay Pacific, Aegean Airlines, Flyadeal, and others, has temporarily suspended flights to Bahrain. This decision is a direct response to the challenges posed by the airspace restrictions, which have severely impacted flight schedules and caused widespread cancellations. While international routes remain halted, the airlines are offering limited travel options for stranded citizens, primarily focused on facilitating their return to Saudi Arabia. These temporary measures are necessary to maintain passenger safety, comply with airspace regulations, and manage the logistical complexities caused by the current regional situation.

Recent developments in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region have led to significant flight disruptions, affecting both local and international travelers. Ongoing airspace closures, airport shutdowns, and flight cancellations have created confusion and uncertainty for passengers. This comprehensive report provides the latest information on Saudi airports and airlines, offering a clearer picture for those navigating the region’s flight challenges.

King Khalid International Airport Remains Open

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh, one of Saudi Arabia’s busiest international gateways, remains operational despite ongoing disruptions. However, passengers are advised to expect potential delays, cancellations, or rescheduling of flights due to the evolving situation. Travelers are strongly encouraged to check the status of their flights through the airport’s official communication channels, including its WhatsApp service. By contacting the airport at +9200200900, travelers can receive real-time updates on their flight status, minimizing the inconvenience caused by sudden changes.

Enhanced Services at King Khalid International Airport

To assist travelers during these turbulent times, King Khalid International Airport has introduced several initiatives designed to improve the passenger experience. A 24-hour customer service team, known as the “Ask Me” service, has been set up at all terminals to provide real-time updates and answer any questions regarding flight changes. This service is available to ensure that passengers can stay informed and make necessary arrangements.

In addition to the “Ask Me” service, the airport has launched a luggage storage service to provide further relief to affected passengers. This facility allows travelers to store their luggage for both short-term and long-term durations, up to 15 days, at the Lost & Found Office and Baggage Office in both domestic and international terminals.

Flight Operations for Saudi Airlines

Several Saudi airlines, including the national carrier and low-cost options, have updated their operations in response to the current regional situation.

Saudia Resumes Limited Operations to Dubai

Saudia, Saudi Arabia’s flag carrier, has partially resumed its operations to Dubai, with outbound flights from Riyadh (SV596) and Jeddah (SV588), and inbound flights from Dubai (SV597 and SV589). However, due to the ongoing airspace closures, certain international destinations remain closed, and several flights have been canceled. Passengers are urged to check their flight status on Saudia’s dedicated flight status page to stay informed of any further changes.

For those whose flights have been canceled, Saudia advises that they contact their travel agency for rebooking or reach out directly to the airline through its official channels. To streamline communication, Saudia emphasizes the importance of ensuring that correct contact details are provided when booking flights so that updates can be sent directly to passengers.

Flynas Halts International Flights

Flynas, Saudi Arabia’s low-cost airline, has announced the suspension of flights to several international destinations due to the closure of regional airspace. These destinations include Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait, Iraq, Sharjah, and Syria. These cancellations will remain in effect until 11:59 PM on Wednesday, April 15.

Passengers affected by these cancellations are encouraged to stay up-to-date with their flight status by visiting the official Flynas website or contacting the airline through its customer support hotlines: +920001234 for those within Saudi Arabia and +966 114349000 for international inquiries.

Flyadeal Cancellations Continue

Flyadeal, another low-cost carrier, has also canceled several flights to key destinations, including Amman, Damascus, and Dubai. These cancellations will remain in effect until Tuesday, April 14. In addition, Flyadeal has suspended flights to Peshawar until April 29.

Passengers with canceled flights will be directly notified by the airline, and they are encouraged to check their flight status before proceeding to the airport. Flyadeal’s customer service team will assist in managing rebooking and refund requests.

Other International Airlines Update Operations

Several international airlines have adjusted their operations in response to the region’s airspace disruptions.

Aegean Airlines Resumes Jeddah Flights

Aegean Airlines, the Greek national carrier, has resumed flights between Jeddah and its home base. However, flights to and from Riyadh remain canceled until Thursday, April 30, due to airspace challenges. Passengers should confirm their flight status before heading to the airport.

Akasa Air Suspends Flights to Riyadh

India’s Akasa Air has resumed select flights to Jeddah, including routes from Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kochi, and Kozhikode. However, flights to Riyadh are suspended until Sunday, April 5. Passengers are urged to visit Akasa’s website for the most up-to-date flight information or contact the airline’s 24/7 customer care center for assistance.

Air China Resumes Riyadh-Beijing Operations

Air China has resumed operations between Riyadh and Beijing. The airline has also introduced a “Flight Change Waiting List” option, which passengers can access through the airline’s website and app. Travelers can join the waiting list for alternate travel dates if their original flights are disrupted.

Air France Cancels Riyadh Flights Until April 19

Air France has canceled flights to and from Riyadh and Dubai until Sunday, April 19. Passengers are advised to stay updated by checking their flight status on the Air France website or by contacting the airline’s customer support.

Cathay Pacific Suspends Flights to Riyadh

Cathay Pacific has canceled all its flights to and from Riyadh until Sunday, May 31. The airline is offering flexible options for those affected, including the ability to rebook, reroute, or request refunds without incurring additional fees. Passengers who booked through third-party travel agents are asked to reach out directly to them for assistance.

Gulf Air and Jazeera Airways Adjust Schedules

Bahrain’s Gulf Air has suspended flights to and from Bahrain due to airspace closures. However, the airline is operating limited flights over certain routes through Dammam for Bahraini citizens and residents currently stranded in Saudi Arabia. Passengers are encouraged to contact Gulf Air’s customer support for more details.

Kuwait’s Jazeera Airways has resumed flights between Kuwait and Jeddah via Al Qaisumah Airport in Hafar al Batin. The airline is also operating some international flights through Dammam Airport.

KLM, LOT Polish, Lufthansa, and Other Airlines Suspend Services

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has suspended flights to and from Saudi Arabia until Sunday, May 17. Passengers whose flights were booked before March 2 are eligible for rebooking and refund options. Similarly, LOT Polish Airlines has canceled all flights to and from Riyadh until June 30, and Lufthansa has suspended services to and from Riyadh until October 24. Both airlines are offering ticket flexibility for affected travelers.

Accommodation for Stranded GCC Nationals

As part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to support stranded travelers, GCC nationals are being provided with accommodation at several hotels across the kingdom. The government has made arrangements for free lodging at selected hotels, such as Aber City Center Hotel, Boudl Abha, and Boudl Al-Wurood, among others. In addition, 2,500 fully serviced hotel rooms have been allocated for GCC citizens in partnership with the Makkah Chamber of Commerce.

King Fahad Causeway Closed to Road Travelers

The King Fahad Causeway, the land route connecting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, has been temporarily closed until further notice. Road travelers planning to use this route are advised to check with relevant authorities for the latest updates on its reopening.

The situation across the GCC region remains fluid, with several airlines and airports adjusting their operations in response to the airspace closures. Travelers planning to fly into or out of Saudi Arabia are strongly advised to stay informed through their respective airlines and official airport channels. Regular updates are being provided by airports and airlines, ensuring that passengers have the information they need to manage their travel plans.

Saudia, along with Flynas, Air France, Akasa Air, Cathay Pacific, Aegean Airlines, and Flyadeal, has temporarily suspended flights to Bahrain due to ongoing airspace closures and regional disruptions. Limited travel options are being offered to help stranded citizens return to Saudi Arabia.

With the ongoing disruptions, it is important for travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and stay in contact with airlines for assistance with rebooking or refunds. Airlines are working diligently to support their passengers during this challenging period, and it is expected that further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.