Middle East aviation crisis causes thousands of flight cancellations and delays

Major aviation disruptions are affecting the Middle East, with over 1,200 flight cancellations and more than 1,300 delays reported across regional hubs. Saudi Arabia is the most heavily impacted nation, experiencing nearly 1,000 cancellations across 14 airports. King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah have reported the highest volumes of cancellations and delays.

The disruptions, which have also affected airports in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, are attributed to airspace constraints, airline schedule changes, and increased security measures following missile and drone threats to aviation infrastructure. Major carriers including Saudia, Flynas, Qatar Airways, and Emirates are facing significant operational pressure.

In Bangladesh, passengers traveling to Saudi Arabia have also faced difficulties. Travelers at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport reported cancelled flights and rising costs as they sought alternative routes and new tickets to reach their destinations in cities like Riyadh and Medina.