The US Federal Aviation Administration has issued a warning for flights in Saudi Arabia, telling airlines to exercise caution amid deadly attacks claimed by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis.
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh remained closed on Monday after strikes began last week. The violence escalated on Saturday when a projectile hit a passenger terminal, killing at least 12 people and injuring more than 300, officials said.
Airlines suspended services to the Saudi capital, with some cancellations extending through the rest of the week. The US, Australia and other countries have also advised their citizens against travelling to the region.
The FAA said pilots should “exercise caution” in and around Saudi Arabia because of safety-of-flight risks linked to ongoing military activity and navigation systems. It warned that the threats could affect aircraft “at all altitudes”. The notice is due to remain in force until December 10.
Most US airlines do not operate flights to Saudi Arabia. Delta Air Lines is scheduled to begin its first non-stop service between Atlanta and Riyadh on October 23.
Delta chief executive Ed Bastian said on Thursday, before Saturday’s attack, that “safety is going to make the call” on whether the flight would proceed. The airline had not changed its plans as of Sunday night, a spokeswoman said.
