Saudi Arabia’s decision to halt religious tours to the kingdom to contain the spread of coronavirus will hit Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet.
The three Indian airlines, along with Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia), operate 98 weekly flights to Jeddah. Pilgrims account for over 50 per cent of the traffic between India and Jeddah.
The Saudi government on Thursday announced temporary suspension of Umrah (pilgrimage to Mecca that can be undertaken at any time of the year). Additionally, tourist visa holders from over 20 countries, including India, will not be allowed entry. The Saudi order does not prohibit labour and business travel to the country, but airlines and travel agents are seeking further clarifications, it is learnt.
