Riyadh airport reopens to international flights after Houthi attack closure

Photo: Tom Fisk / Pexels Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport has resumed international flights after a two-week closure due to Houthi attacks from Yemen. Despite ongoing security concerns, flights have restarted, with Terminal 2 now handling international services. The reopening follows Saudi authorities’ interception of a ballistic missile and drones near Riyadh, highlighting the continuing threat environment. The airport’s partial operational status suggests a step towards normalcy, though the risk of further disruptions remains. This development is likely to influence market perceptions regarding the likelihood of a broader Saudi airspace closure. Key Takeaways The reopening of Riyadh’s main airport suggests a decrease in the likelihood of a nationwide Saudi airspace closure. Market activity reflects a modest reduction in perceived risk, with November odds for airspace closure falling to 3.5% YES. Ongoing Houthi threats indicate that the situation remains volatile, impacting long-term market expectations. What to Watch Markets will closely monitor any announcements from the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) and Saudi Air Navigation Services (SANS) for furth...