Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), Nepal’s national flag carrier, has cancelled its scheduled flights between Kathmandu and Dammam, Saudi Arabia, on November 7 and 8, 2026, citing the ongoing security situation in Saudi Arabia. The decision was announced through an official flight update circular issued on November 5, 2026, as the airline prioritizes passenger safety and secure flight operations.
The cancellation affects two flights operating between Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. According to the corporation, Flight RA 241, scheduled to operate from Kathmandu to Dammam on November 7, and the return service, Flight RA 242, scheduled for November 8, have both been cancelled until further notice. The airline has apologized to passengers for the inconvenience and advised those holding tickets for the affected dates to contact its offices for alternative travel arrangements, ticket changes or refunds.
Nepal Airlines Cancels Two Scheduled Kathmandu–Dammam Services
According to Flight Update Circular No. 60/2026, dated November 5 (2083/07/19), Nepal Airlines has suspended the following scheduled services:
| Flight Number | Route | Scheduled Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| RA 241 | Kathmandu–Dammam | November 7, 2026 | Cancelled |
| RA 242 | Dammam–Kathmandu | November 8, 2026 | Cancelled |
The corporation stated that the decision was taken in response to the ongoing security situation in Saudi Arabia. Although the notice does not provide specific details about the security developments or the expected duration of the disruption, it makes clear that passenger safety remains the primary consideration behind the decision.
The cancellations affect both directions of the Kathmandu–Dammam air connection, which serves passengers travelling between Nepal and Saudi Arabia. The route is particularly relevant to Nepali travellers, including migrant workers, returning residents and other passengers travelling for personal and professional purposes.
Free Ticket Changes and Full Refunds for Affected Passengers
To reduce the inconvenience caused by the cancellations, Nepal Airlines has announced flexible ticket arrangements for affected passengers. Travellers who still wish to undertake their journeys can revalidate or change their tickets to a new travel date without paying additional charges. Passengers who no longer wish to travel can also cancel their bookings and receive a full refund, according to the airline’s circular.
These provisions are intended to give passengers flexibility in managing their travel plans while flight operations remain affected by the security situation. Passengers are advised to contact the airline’s ticketing and customer service offices to obtain information about the applicable rebooking and refund procedures. Travellers should also confirm their revised flight arrangements directly with the corporation before proceeding to the airport.
Airline Closely Monitoring Security Developments
Nepal Airlines has stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and will provide further information about flight schedules as developments unfold. The corporation emphasized that future operational decisions will prioritize safe flight operations and passenger security. The latest announcement reflects the importance of monitoring security conditions when operating international air services. Airlines may need to review their schedules and operational arrangements when circumstances in destination countries create concerns about safe and reliable flight operations.
NAC has requested passengers to regularly follow updates published through its official website and social media platforms. Passengers planning to travel between Kathmandu and Dammam in the coming days are also encouraged to verify their flight status before departure rather than relying on previously issued schedules.
Contact Information for Passenger Assistance
Nepal Airlines has provided separate contact details for passengers seeking assistance from its Kathmandu and Dammam offices.
Kathmandu Office
- Telephone: 01-5718538, 01-5718539, 01-5718543
- Email: [email protected]
Dammam Office
- Telephone: +966 05307478423 / 0535050962
- Email: [email protected]
The corporation has expressed regret over the disruption and apologized to passengers whose travel plans have been affected. It has reiterated that ensuring passenger safety and maintaining secure flight operations remain its priorities while monitoring the situation. Passengers are advised to remain informed through official Nepal Airlines announcements for any further changes to the Kathmandu–Dammam flight schedule.
