Riyadh:Dhaka Passengers stranded due to the closure of Riyadh airport in Saudi Arabia will be redirected to their destinations via alternative flights through Dammam and Madinah, subject to seat availability and at no extra cost. This arrangement was announced by Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat on Monday.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the closure of Riyadh airport has led to the cancellation of 10 Biman Bangladesh Airlines flights, affecting 3,431 passengers. The minister revealed this information while speaking to reporters at the Secretariat before a meeting on international flight operations from Cox's Bazar Airport.
Airlines have been instructed to reduce passenger inconvenience by organizing alternative flights and providing advance notice of any cancellations. The minister acknowledged the global impact of the Riyadh airport closure, with international flight operations suspended for airlines worldwide.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines Managing Director Kaizer Sohail Ahmed stated that the airline is offering to transport affected passengers through Dammam and Madinah without additional charges. Passengers are advised to contact the airline to make arrangements, depending on seat availability.
Saudi Arabia is a key destination for Biman due to its large Bangladeshi population. However, the ongoing uncertainty regarding the reopening of Riyadh airport complicates planning efforts. The closure has already lasted four days, and fluctuating timelines have been communicated to the airline.
Efforts are being made to update passengers regularly through various channels, including television news tickers, Biman's website, its Facebook page, and call center. Assistance is also being provided to those already at the airport to alleviate their inconvenience.