Saudi authorities extended the operational closure of Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport through October 17 following repeated strikes. Nationwide air travel cancellations reached 46.4 percent, with traffic rerouted away from Riyadh while Jeddah flights continued. Major international regulators and airlines have issued warnings and prolonged flight cancellations.
UAE carriers including Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia cancelled multiple services to Saudi destinations such as Riyadh and Abha on Saturday, October 10. Additional cancellations hit Air Arabia Abu Dhabi routes to Kuwait and Tashkent, while Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports recorded incoming flight delays. Airlines and airport operators urged all passengers to check their flight status directly before travelling.
A preliminary investigation conducted by Saudi authorities alongside UAE security personnel found that the co-pilot of flydubai Flight FZ1073 assaulted the captain, injuring both individuals. The aircraft diverted to Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, landing safely with 174 passengers and eight crew members. Following medical treatment in Tabuk, both pilots were cleared and transferred to Abu Dhabi.
A Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv diverted safely to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, after a pilot stabbed the captain and attempted to sabotage the aircraft mid-air. Passengers and crew subdued the attacker before the plane landed, and Saudi authorities placed the suspect under arrest. Flydubai confirmed all passengers were safe, while the Israel Airports Authority set up an information center for families.
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