Special Aviation Alert Issued For Saudi Flights

Owing to operational disruptions triggered by the evolving security situation across various airports in Saudi Arabia, a special advisory has been issued for all airlines operating on Saudi routes. Group Captain S. M. Ragib Samad, Executive Director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), issued an official directive on Monday night (October 12, 2026) detailing mandatory operational instructions. Framed within modern aeronautical safety frameworks and real-time tracking standards, the directive aims to safeguard passengers and maintain order.

The official letter noted that the security environment in Saudi Arabian airspace and airports has caused severe operational delays and cancellations. Consequently, all airlines operating direct or transit flights to Saudi Arabia from Bangladesh must immediately enforce the new compliance measures.

Under the published guidelines, airlines are mandated to notify affected passengers regarding flight delays, cancellations, or rescheduled departures in real-time via digital communication channels, including SMS, direct phone calls, email, official websites, and social media platforms. Furthermore, carriers must provide transparent information concerning revised departure times, rebooking procedures, ticket refunds, and other applicable compensation protocols.

For passengers requiring visa extensions or immigration-related support due to stranded schedules, the respective airlines have been instructed to facilitate active coordination with Saudi aviation authorities, the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Dhaka, and other concerned diplomatic entities.

The directive highlights that airlines must guarantee complete on-ground assistance to stranded or uninformed passengers arriving at HSIA. Airlines are required to provide proper seating arrangements, drinking water, snacks, meals, and essential amenities. Priority care must be extended to senior citizens, children, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable passengers.

To manage flight disruptions efficiently, each operating airline must immediately assign a dedicated focal point officer. The designated official's name, designation, mobile number, and email address must be communicated to HSIA's Flight Management Division, and the officer must remain available 24/7 throughout this crisis period.

The notice emphasized that no affected passenger should be left unattended or without support. Airlines are required to treat every passenger with empathy and ensure full disclosure of accurate information.

Currently, regular commercial passenger and cargo flights operate from Bangladesh to key Saudi destinations, including Riyadh, Dammam, Jeddah, and Madinah.            //DBTech/GEPR/SVP/MIST//