New Delhi, 10 October (H.S.):

In view of the heightened tensions in West Asia and the prevailing situation in Saudi Arabia, Air India and Air India Express have extended the suspension of their flights to and from Riyadh until October 15.

Official sources said on Saturday that Air India Express had cancelled its Riyadh services until October 14, while Air India had decided to keep its flights suspended until October 15. Earlier, both airlines had announced the cancellation of their Riyadh services until October 10.

The sources said the airlines were closely monitoring the situation and continuously assessing developments in the region. Air India and Air India Express are also offering full refunds to passengers affected by the cancellations. An official said Air India Express was additionally allowing passengers to reschedule their travel dates without incurring any additional charges.

Air India Express operates 16 flights per week to Riyadh from four Indian cities — Bengaluru, Kochi, Kannur and Kozhikode. Air India, meanwhile, operates seven flights a week to Riyadh from Delhi and Mumbai.

It may be recalled that earlier this week, two airports in Saudi Arabia — Riyadh and Abha — were reportedly targeted in attacks attributed to Houthi rebels.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar