FAA tells US airlines to exercise caution in Saudi Arabia flights, citing safety risks

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a cautionary notice to US airlines regarding flights to or over Saudi Arabia, citing potential safety risks associated with ongoing military activities and interference with navigation systems. This advisory, valid until December 10, follows two recent attacks on Riyadh’s international airport, which resulted in 13 deaths and over 300 injuries.

The FAA warns that these threats could pose a risk to aircraft at all altitudes, including during overflight, arrival, and departure phases. The advisory applies to both US-registered aircraft and those operated by US-based airlines. Riyadh airport remains closed to flights until at least 5 p.m. EDT on Monday. Delta Air Lines, which plans to commence direct flights to Riyadh on October 23 from Atlanta, has stated that safety will determine its decision to proceed.

Other major US airlines, which serve Riyadh through codeshare partnerships, are also being advised to exercise caution. FedEx, which launched its first dedicated flight to Saudi Arabia in September 2025, operates the service six times per week using a Boeing 777 freighter.