PAL cancels Riyadh flights amid regional concerns

October 8, 2026
12:03PM PHT

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  • Philippine Airlines canceled its Manila-Riyadh-Manila flights scheduled for Oct. 8 as the carrier responds to a developing regional situation
  • PAL said operational teams are assessing airport conditions and their implications for subsequent flights
  • Affected passengers will be informed about cancellations and available travel options as the airline continues monitoring conditions


Philippine Airlines (PAL) has canceled its Manila-Riyadh-Manila services for Oct. 8, citing a developing situation in the region that has prompted the flag carrier to assess airport conditions and potential risks to succeeding flights.

The airline said flights PR654 and PR655 will not operate on Thursday. PR654 serves the Manila-to-Riyadh sector, while PR655 is the corresponding Riyadh-to-Manila service.

The cancellation comes after Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis claimed attacks on Saudi Arabia’s King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Saudi authorities said attacks on the Riyadh and Abha airports on Tuesday and Wednesday killed three people and injured 36, including one fatality and eight injuries at the Riyadh airport. 

Passengers with subsequent flights to Riyadh are also advised to monitor airline advisories, as schedules may be adjusted based on the carrier’s assessment.| Contributed photo

Continuing assessment 

The cancellations affect PAL passengers traveling between the Philippines and Saudi Arabia, an important market for overseas Filipino workers and other travelers. 

The airline's decision also signals that subsequent services could depend on its continuing assessment of airport conditions.PAL said its operational teams are reviewing conditions at airports and their implications for upcoming flights. 

Passengers affected by the cancellations will be notified about the disruption and the travel alternatives available to them.

“We recognize the inconvenience and concern these cancellations may cause our passengers. We are continuously monitoring the situation to guide our next steps and support their travel needs,” PAL said in a statement.

PAL said its operational teams are assessing airport conditions and their potential impact on subsequent flights, with passenger and crew safety remaining its top priority.

Travelers booked on the affected services should watch for direct communication from PAL regarding their available options. Passengers with subsequent Riyadh flights should also monitor airline advisories because schedules may be adjusted depending on the carrier's assessment. —Vanessa Hidalgo |Ed: Corrie S. Narisma

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