Air traffic disruptions were reported between Kochi and Riyadh on Thursday due to security threats at King Khalid International Airport, following claims by Yemen’s Houthi group of missile attacks targeting the airport.
Air traffic between Kochi, India, and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, faced significant disruptions on Thursday, October 5, 2023, due to a reported security threat at King Khalid International Airport. These disruptions occurred shortly after the Houthi military group from Yemen claimed responsibility for a missile attack aimed at the airport, raising concerns about air travel safety in the region.
As a result of these security concerns, two flights scheduled to depart from Cochin International Airport (CIAL) for Riyadh were cancelled. The affected flights included Akasa Air flight QP523, which was set to leave Kochi at 7:55 PM, and Saudia flight SV775, scheduled for departure at 9:40 PM. In a further reflection of the escalating situation, Akasa Air also announced the suspension of its return flight QP524 from Riyadh back to Kochi. Authorities at CIAL advised passengers booked on these flights to contact their respective airlines’ customer service centers for updated travel information.
Significant Flight Operations Suspended
The air travel disruptions did not stop with the cancellations from Kochi. An Air India flight originating from Delhi to Riyadh reportedly turned back while en route after security threats were communicated regarding the attack on Riyadh airport. Subsequently, both Air India and its subsidiary Air India Express announced a suspension of all flights to and from Riyadh until at least October 10, 2023, as a precautionary measure in light of the shifting security landscape.
Claims of Missile Strikes by Houthi Forces
The disruptions coincided with a statement from Yahya Sarea, a military spokesperson for the Houthi group, who claimed via social media that a ballistic missile had successfully struck its target at King Khalid International Airport. In his announcement, Sarea also mentioned missile strikes aimed at government forces near the strategically significant Bab al-Mandeb Strait, further heightening tensions in the region.
As of Thursday evening, there was no immediate confirmation from Saudi authorities regarding the claims made by the Houthi spokesperson. However, Sarea warned international airlines against continuing to operate flights through Saudi airspace, indicating a potential escalation in hostilities that could directly impact international travel.
Context of Recent Attacks and Military Operations
This latest claim from the Houthis comes in the aftermath of attacks on two other Saudi airports on October 6 and 7. Those attacks reportedly resulted in three fatalities and left 36 individuals injured. In response to these incidents, the Saudi-led coalition operating in Yemen announced a comprehensive military operation targeting Houthi positions, asserting that 82 military targets across various provinces had been successfully destroyed. This military escalation reflects the ongoing conflict in Yemen, which has drawn in regional powers and raises concerns about broader implications for the Middle East.
Advisory Issued by Indian Embassy
Amid the developing situation, the Embassy of India in Riyadh issued an advisory urging Indian nationals residing in Saudi Arabia to remain vigilant. The embassy recommended that individuals stay indoors when necessary and to adhere to directives issued by local authorities through official communication channels. Furthermore, the embassy cautioned the Indian community against circulating or reposting unverified videos or news related to the ongoing developments, emphasizing the importance of relying on credible sources for information.
The advisory confirmed that operations at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, the Consulate in Jeddah, and their outsourced services through VFS were continuing as normal, despite the heightened security situation. The embassy also highlighted the availability of a 24-hour helpline through the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendra (PBSK) at the number 8002471234, offering assistance to Indian nationals. The embassy encouraged the community to stay updated by following its official social media accounts.
Implications for Air Travel and Regional Security
The situation surrounding King Khalid International Airport remains fluid, with international airlines closely monitoring developments to ensure the safety of their passengers. The impact of these disruptions on air travel could be significant, as travelers may face further cancellations or delays in the coming days as airlines reassess their operations in light of the evolving security environment. Additionally, the ongoing conflict in Yemen and the potential for further escalations could have broader implications for regional stability and international air travel.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, the safety of civilians and the implications for air travel remain critical concerns for both the Saudi government and the international community. The situation is being watched closely, with many stakeholders involved in ensuring the safety and security of airspace in one of the world’s key transit corridors.
