The Federal Aviation Administration has directed U.S. airlines to exercise caution when operating in or around Saudi Arabia following attacks claimed by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis. The warning, issued late Sunday, remains in effect until Dec. 10 and cites safety-of-flight risks associated with ongoing military activities and navigation systems. The FAA stated that these threats could pose a potential risk to aircraft at all altitudes.
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh has remained closed since attacks began last week. Officials reported that the situation escalated on Saturday when a projectile struck a passenger terminal, killing at least 12 people and wounding more than 300. In response, airlines have suspended flights to the airport, with some suspensions lasting for the remainder of the week. The United States, Australia, and other nations have advised their citizens to avoid travel to the region.
Delta Air Lines is scheduled to launch its first nonstop flight from Atlanta to Riyadh on Oct. 23. CEO Ed Bastian told reporters on Thursday, prior to the Saturday attack, that safety would determine whether the flight operates as planned. As of Sunday night, a Delta spokeswoman confirmed that the airline had not altered its schedule.