The Federal Aviation Administration's warning comes in response to escalating attacks by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis, which have resulted in the closure of King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The attacks, which began last week, intensified over the weekend when a projectile hit a passenger terminal, leading to at least 12 fatalities and over 300 injuries.
In light of these developments, airlines have suspended flights to the airport, with some halting operations for the remainder of the week. The FAA's advisory, effective until December 10, emphasizes the safety risks posed by ongoing military activities and potential threats to aircraft at all altitudes.
While most U.S. airlines do not operate flights to Saudi Arabia, Delta Air Lines is set to begin its first nonstop service from Atlanta to Riyadh on October 23. CEO Ed Bastian indicated that the decision to proceed with this flight will depend on safety considerations, although as of now, Delta has not altered its plans