Delta Air Lines has postponed the launch of its nonstop Atlanta–Riyadh service until March 2027, citing evolving regional developments and the safety of passengers and employees. The route was due to begin on 23 October using Airbus A350-900 aircraft and would have been Delta’s first nonstop passenger service to Saudi Arabia, as well as the first US-operated nonstop connection between the United States and Riyadh.
The decision followed deadly attacks on King Khalid International Airport, including a strike on a passenger terminal that killed at least 12 people and injured more than 300, according to officials cited by CNBC. A further attack reportedly killed one person and injured 11 others. The attacks were claimed by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement.
Riyadh airport remained closed, with more than 2,000 flights reportedly cancelled since the previous Thursday. The Federal Aviation Administration had advised US airlines and other covered operators to exercise caution in and around Saudi Arabia because of military activity and possible navigation-signal interference. The notice remains effective through 10 December.
The planned service was initially scheduled to operate daily from 23 to 30 October before moving to three flights per week. Delta remains in contact with government and aviation partners, including Saudia and Riyadh Air, and considers Saudi Arabia a long-term market. Customers affected by the postponement can review rebooking and refund options through Delta’s website or mobile application.