Delta delays Saudi Arabia launch until 2027 following Riyadh Airport attacks

Delta Air Lines has delayed the launch of its flagship Saudi Arabia service until after the New Year.

The airline said on Monday, 12 October, that it would push back the new route between Atlanta and Riyadh until March 2027. In a statement, Delta added,

“The safety and security of our customers and employees always come first and continue to guide our operational decisions. We remain in close contact with relevant government and aviation partners, including Saudia and Riyadh Air, as we monitor the situation.”

The route between Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport and Riyadh’s King Khalid was to be the first nonstop service to Saudi Arabia flown by a US airline.

Delta’s Riyadh route was more than just a new connection

The airline had unveiled plans for its Saudi Arabia flights last year, with the nonstop Atlanta to Riyadh service set to begin on 23 October.

It was set to operate daily for the first week, before switching to a thrice-weekly schedule from 31 October. Delta had marketed the cultural and natural attractions of the region, but had also stressed the benefits of onward connections across the Middle East.

These connections would have ultimately been provided by its regional partner Riyadh Air. The two signed an agreement in 2024, promising to expand connectivity and premium travel options between North America and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

At the time, the two parties said that the agreement envisaged a long-term relationship including interline and codeshare, and potentially even an immunised joint venture.

Despite the fanfare two years ago, nothing has been formalised between Delta and Riyadh Air. The launch of Delta’s Saudi route would have been a step in the right direction.

Delta already has a codeshare with Saudia, and was betting on being able to entice Saudi flyers into its enormous North American network. Now, it seems it will wait until the next season to give the route a try.

Riyadh Air suspends services as its home airport closes

While the news of its US partner delaying such an important launch will come as a blow to Riyadh Air, the airline is grappling with issues of its own.

King Khalid Airport in Riyadh has been the target of multiple attacks in recent days, with one Saudia Airbus destroyed on the apron and a pilot fatally injured. On Saturday, 13 people were killed and hundreds injured when missiles hit the terminal building, forcing the airport to close.

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued today, 12 October, showed that the airport would stay closed until 21:00 GMT on Sunday, 17 October. However, that doesn’t mean the airport will definitely reopen after that.

As the home of the fledgling Saudi airline, Riyadh Air has had no choice but to cancel flights. A travel advisory on its website says all its flights will be suspended today and tomorrow; if the airport remains closed, those suspensions will inevitably be extended.

Cancelled Saudi Arabia flights?

Passengers affected by cancellations should check their airline’s flight status page and contact the airline or booking agent about rebooking or a refund before heading to the airport.

Those already abroad should ask about accommodation, meals and alternative travel arrangements, as assistance varies by airline and circumstances. Keep receipts for essential expenses and check travel insurance coverage before making costly bookings yourself.

Monitor official travel advice and ensure your airline has your current contact details. An airport reopening does not necessarily mean your flight will operate: wait for confirmation from your airline.