On July 13, the recent missile and drone attack by Houthi rebels led to the temporary closure of Abha Airport in Saudi Arabia, a significant transportation hub near the Yemen border. This incident has caused considerable disruptions in air travel, affecting multiple airlines and their operations in the region.
Impact on Airlines and Flight Operations
The attack prompted Saudi authorities to issue a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) extending the closure of Abha Airport through July 16. At least eight airlines suspended their flights to and from this airport between July 14 and July 16. Additionally, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines halted its services to key locations, including Dammam, Riyadh, and Dubai, up to and including July 15. Meanwhile, Lufthansa Group’s flights to Dammam, Riyadh, Tehran, and other Middle Eastern destinations remain suspended until October 24, 2026. British Airways has also responded by cancelling or temporarily suspending services to Riyadh and a number of regional routes.
International Reactions and Safety Measures
In the wake of these developments, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) reinstated a warning for airlines operating in the Middle East on July 14. This warning, which had been lifted a week prior, advises carriers to avoid entering the airspace over Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and the Gulf of Oman within the Muscat flight information region (FIR). Airlines are taking these precautions seriously to ensure the safety of their passengers and crews.
Context of the Conflict and Responsibility Claims
The Houthi rebels blamed Saudi Arabia for the attack on Sana Airport, claiming it was a retaliatory measure. However, Yemen’s internationally recognized government later clarified that the airstrike aimed to prevent a Mahan Air flight, which was carrying a Houthi delegation, from landing at Sana Airport. The Iranian-backed Mahan Air plane was diverted to Hodeidah, a city under Houthi control, and later returned to Tehran. This complex situation highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the risks associated with air travel amidst such conflicts.
Ongoing International Oversight and Concerns
The situation escalated to a level that prompted the United Nations Security Council to convene an emergency meeting in response to the attack. The threat of further escalations remains a crucial concern for international observers, as conflicts in this region often have broader implications for air travel and global security. With the Houthis controlling northwestern Yemen, including Sana, and Saudi Arabia supporting the Yemeni government located in Aden, the stakes are high.
This series of events underscores the volatility of the Middle East and its impact on air travel, affecting numerous airlines and their operations. Travelers planning to fly in or out of this region need to stay informed about ongoing developments and adjust their travel plans accordingly, given the complexities and potential risks involved.