FAA Warns Airlines of Saudi Flight Risks After Riyadh Attacks

Concerns over aviation safety near Saudi Arabia have prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to warn U.S. airlines about flying in the region after attacks disrupted operations at Riyadh's main international airport. The warning, issued Sunday, followed deadly strikes claimed by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels and led Delta Air Lines to postpone its planned inaugural nonstop service between Atlanta and Riyadh.

The FAA said military activity and potential navigation-system disruptions could threaten aircraft operating near Saudi Arabia. Its advisory applies to flights at all altitudes and remains in effect through December 10, according to the agency.

King Khalid International Airport remained closed Monday following attacks that began the previous week. Officials said the violence escalated Saturday when a projectile struck a passenger terminal, killing at least 12 people and injuring more than 300.

Airlines suspended service to the airport, with some cancellations extending through the remainder of the week. The United States, Australia and other countries also advised their citizens against traveling to the region.

The FAA's guidance specifically highlighted risks associated with ongoing military operations and navigation systems. The agency urged pilots to exercise caution when operating in or around Saudi Arabia.

The advisory stated that pilots should "exercise caution" in or around Saudi Arabia because of safety-of-flight risks linked to military activity and navigation systems. The FAA also warned that the threats could affect "aircraft at all altitudes."

Most U.S. airlines do not operate flights to Saudi Arabia, limiting the direct impact on domestic carriers. Delta, however, had been preparing to introduce a new connection between the United States and the Saudi capital.

Delta had scheduled its first nonstop flight between Atlanta and Riyadh for October 23. The airline announced Monday morning that it would delay the service until March following the FAA warning.

The postponement changes the timeline for Delta's planned entry into the Riyadh market as airport operations remain disrupted. The airline's revised schedule places the launch in March, although the source report did not specify an exact date for the rescheduled service.