Delta Air Lines delays the planned start of its nonstop Atlanta–Riyadh service, originally set for Oct. 23, following deadly attacks at Riyadh’s airport. Sources report that Houthi strikes hit the airport, killing at least 12 people, which leads to widespread flight cancellations and disruptions.
The decision also reflects heightened security concerns around the Saudi airspace amid ongoing conflict. Some outlets note the route had already faced questions regarding safety and demand prior to the October launch, with Delta and its partners evaluating conditions such as security risks and passenger demand.
Multiple reports say Delta is now targeting a start date in March (with one outlet citing March 2027). Other details mentioned across coverage include that the carrier had been pursuing the route as a significant milestone, described as the first nonstop commercial flight between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, and that it had been considering operational steps such as fare adjustments and airline relationships in Riyadh.
