King Khalid International Airport
Riyadh's main international airport, 35 km north of the capital, run by Riyadh Airports Company.
Houthi missiles struck King Khalid International Airport on 10 and 11 October 2026, killing 13 people and wounding over 300, according to the UN Security Council.
Last refreshed: 18 October 2026
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Struck by Houthi missiles on 10 and 11 October; 13 killed
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Houthi missiles struck King Khalid International Airport on 10 and 11 October 2026, killing 13 people and wounding over 300, according to a UN Security Council presidential statement. Saudi authorities reported strikes on the airport on 7, 8, 10 and 11 October, in a campaign against Saudi airports that began on 6 October at Jazan and Najran.
The airport lies about 35 km north of central Riyadh. It opened in 1983, is run by the state-owned Riyadh Airports Company and handled 40.8 million passengers in 2025. It is a hub for Saudia, Flynas, Flyadeal and Riyadh Air.
Meeting in Riyadh on 5 October, the Saudi, Turkish and Pakistani governments activated their Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, its first use. Al Jazeera reported that day that the Houthis had claimed strikes on the airport, which Riyadh did not confirm.
How many people were killed in the Houthi strikes on Riyadh airport?
Where is King Khalid International Airport?
When did the Houthis start attacking Saudi airports in 2026?
Which airlines suspended flights to Riyadh after the Houthi strikes?
Written with AI from Lowdown's published reporting. Not individually reviewed by an editor. Updated 18 October 2026. Editorial standards.