Saudi Arabia: 3 Saudi Nationals Martyred in Attacks at King Khalid International Airport

Saudi Arabia announced on Friday the martyrdom of three Saudi citizens and the injury of several nationals and residents of various nationalities in two attacks that targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh on Thursday. The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) stated in a press release that King Khalid International Airport was subjected to two attacks on Thursday; the first targeted airport facilities, while the second targeted a Saudia aircraft. It confirmed that emergency response teams and relevant authorities began dealing with the attacks immediately upon their occurrence, in accordance with approved procedures and plans. It clarified that “the attacks resulted in the martyrdom of three Saudi citizens, may God have mercy on them, and the injury of several citizens and residents of various nationalities, with injuries ranging from minor to severe. They were promptly transferred to hospitals to receive necessary medical care. The attacks also caused some material damage.” GACA emphasized continued work in close coordination with relevant security authorities to assess the damage and take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and the security and integrity of the civil aviation system in the Kingdom. It noted the resumption of operational activities at the airport and the return of air traffic to normal.

For its part, Saudia Airlines announced on Friday the martyrdom of the flight captain, Hamoud Al-Kalthami, following the incident that occurred on Thursday at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which also resulted in damage to one of its aircraft. Saudia stated in a press release that the damaged aircraft was on the ground at the airport and had no passengers on board at the time of the incident, adding that emergency response procedures were activated in coordination with relevant authorities to monitor the condition of those affected and provide necessary care and support to them and their families. It clarified that its flights and operational activities at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh returned to normal as of 6:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, with continued monitoring of flight schedules and communication with passengers through its official channels.

In conclusion, Saudia Airlines expressed its sincere condolences and sympathies to the family of the martyr, his relatives, and colleagues, recalling his contributions during his professional career in service of the national carrier and the good reputation he left among his peers. It prayed to God Almighty to envelop him in His abundant mercy and forgiveness, to grant him a spacious place in Paradise, and to inspire his family and loved ones with patience and solace.