Riyadh Airport hit again by a Houthi attack
TOP MAGAZINE · Air Freight
King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh was struck again by a Houthi missile on Sunday, just one day after a deadly attack. The airport will remain closed until Monday evening, with major consequences for international air freight.
Second attack in quick succession
Following a deadly missile attack on Saturday, in which, according to Saudi authorities, twelve people were killed, Riyadh Airport was again targeted by a Houthi missile on Sunday. This second attack struck the airport, resulting in one death and eleven injuries. The authorities responded by extending the airport’s closure until at least 21:00 GMT on Monday.
In addition to the new attack on Riyadh, the airport in Dammam was also hit, although more extensive damage was prevented there. Tensions in the region are causing a high degree of uncertainty for air transport and international shipments via Saudi Arabian airports.
Impact on air freight traffic
The immediate impact is that air freight flows to and from Riyadh have been completely halted. International cargo flights cannot land at or depart from the affected airports, whilst the security situation on alternative routes is also under strain.
The authorities and airlines are monitoring developments. Meanwhile, various embassies are warning their nationals to avoid the airports and to leave the area where possible. Logistical operations have come to a standstill due to the complete airport shutdown.
Uncertain outlook for transport in Saudi Arabia
The Houthis have now indicated that they intend to carry out further attacks on ‘transit hubs’ such as Riyadh. Disruptions may therefore be prolonged, depending on how the conflict unfolds.
Although some freight flows can be temporarily diverted to other ports or airports in the region, shippers face ongoing operational risks, delays and additional security restrictions until the airspace and airport facilities are once again deemed safe.
What does this mean for your shipment?
TOP’s assessment based on the above developments.
Planning
Shippers should allow for longer transit times, diversions and unpredictable delays in and around Saudi Arabia.
Costs
Increased diversion costs, storage charges and additional insurance may put pressure on air freight rates to or via Riyadh.
Point to note
Check the status of shipments bound for Saudi airports and consider alternative routes or storage facilities.
Sources
Aviation Week — Latest Missile Strike on Riyadh Airport Kills 12
AFP.com — Riyadh airport hit by fresh Houthi strike day after deadly attack | AFP.com
Image: TOP archive, for illustrative purposes.