‎GACA: 3 killed in attacks on Riyadh airport, Saudia aircraft

October 9, 2026

‎GACA: 3 killed in attacks on Riyadh airport, Saudia aircraft

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A Saudia aircraft sustained damage while parked at the airport, with no passengers on board.

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) announced that King Khalid International Airport was targeted in two attacks on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. The first targeted airport facilities, while the second struck an aircraft belonging to Saudia.

In a statement, GACA said the attacks killed three Saudi nationals and injured several citizens and residents of various nationalities, with injuries ranging from minor to severe, in addition to causing material damage.

The authority added that emergency response teams and relevant agencies responded immediately to both attacks, while the injured were taken to hospital for necessary medical treatment.

GACA confirmed that it continues to coordinate with the relevant security authorities to assess the damage and take the necessary measures to ensure the safety of passengers and airport personnel. It added that airport operations have resumed and air traffic has returned to normal.

Separately, Saudia said in a statement that one of its employees was killed in the incident, extending its deepest condolences to his family.

The airline added that one of its aircraft was damaged while parked at the airport, with no passengers on board at the time of the incident.

Saudia said it immediately activated emergency response procedures in coordination with the relevant authorities to address the aftermath, monitor the condition of those affected and provide the necessary care and support to them and their families.

The airline confirmed that its flights and operations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh returned to normal as of 6:00 PM on Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. It added that it continues to monitor flight schedules and communicate with passengers through its official channels.

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A Saudia aircraft sustained damage while parked at the airport, with no passengers on board.

The authority added that emergency response teams and relevant agencies responded immediately to both attacks, while the injured were taken to hospital for necessary medical treatment.

Separately, Saudia said in a statement that one of its employees was killed in the incident, extending its deepest condolences to his family.

The airline added that one of its aircraft was damaged while parked at the airport, with no passengers on board at the time of the incident.