A Maldivian flight scheduled to depart this morning, carrying 250 Umrah pilgrims under the care of the Maldives Hajj Corporation, has been abruptly postponed.
Island Aviation, the operator of Maldivian, stated that it delayed the trip to ensure passenger safety and security, following an escalation in regional tensions involving Saudi Arabia over the past 24 hours.
Island Aviation noted that several other airlines have also suspended flights to Saudi Arabia due to the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. Citing statements from international aviation authorities, the airline reported that there are currently restrictions on utilizing Jeddah's airspace.
Although operations at Jeddah airport continue, assessments conducted by Island Aviation’s technical experts indicate that using the region's flight paths at this time could pose a risk to passenger lives.
"In light of these circumstances, the flight to Jeddah scheduled for Thursday, October 29, 2026, has been postponed to a later date," Island Aviation said in a statement.
Island Aviation and the Hajj Corporation expressed their sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused to travellers by this decision. They reaffirmed that passenger safety remains their highest priority and assured that both institutions are working together to provide the necessary assistance to the affected passengers.
