The Riyadh airport attack killed Saudia pilot Captain Hamoud Ali AlKalthami and two others. A Saudia aircraft was damaged, but airport operations have resumed.
RIYADH: Three Saudi nationals, including Saudia pilot Captain Hamoud Ali AlKalthami, were killed after two attacks targeted King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabia’s capital on October 8, 2026.
The Riyadh airport attack also left several people injured and damaged an aircraft belonging to the national carrier, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) confirmed on Friday, October 9.
According to authorities, the first strike targeted airport facilities, while the second struck a Saudia aircraft parked on the ground.
The airline confirmed that no passengers were aboard the damaged aircraft when the incident occurred.
Who was Captain Hamoud Ali AlKalthami?
Captain Hamoud Ali AlKalthami was an experienced pilot working with Saudia, the Kingdom’s national airline.
Following confirmation of his death, Saudia issued a statement expressing condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
The airline also acknowledged his professional contributions and the lasting impression he made during his aviation career.
His death has drawn attention to the human cost of attacks targeting civilian aviation infrastructure.
Two other Saudi citizens also lost their lives, although authorities have not publicly identified them.
What happened during the two attacks?
Saudi aviation authorities confirmed that King Khalid International Airport was targeted twice on Thursday.
The first strike damaged airport facilities, while the second targeted a Saudia aircraft on the ground.
Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to manage the situation, assist injured individuals and assess the damage.
Several Saudi citizens and foreign residents suffered injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Those requiring medical attention were transported to hospitals for treatment.
The Riyadh airport attack also caused material damage, prompting an immediate safety assessment of airport infrastructure and aviation operations.
Who was responsible for the attacks?
Yemen’s Houthi movement claimed responsibility for strikes targeting Riyadh airport amid renewed regional hostilities.
The group said it had launched missiles towards the airport.
Saudi aviation authorities confirmed the attacks but did not identify those responsible in their initial statement.
The incident follows an escalation in fighting involving Saudi-backed forces and the Houthis in neighbouring Yemen.
The latest violence has increased concerns about the safety of civilian infrastructure and regional aviation.
Is Riyadh airport operating normally?
Despite the deadly strikes, Saudi authorities confirmed that airport operations have resumed.
According to GACA, air traffic returned to normal following emergency response operations and safety assessments.
Relevant security and aviation agencies continue coordinating to evaluate damage and maintain passenger safety.
Travellers flying through Riyadh are encouraged to check directly with their airlines for the latest flight information, particularly as regional security developments may affect schedules.
Impact to expect
The incident could lead to tighter airport security, increased aviation safety inspections and further disruptions to regional flight schedules. Airlines operating across the Gulf may also review operational risks as authorities work to protect passengers, airport employees and critical aviation infrastructure.
