Saudi flight disruptions: Caab orders airlines to aid stranded passengers, assist with visas

The Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (Caab) has directed airlines operating direct and transit flights to Saudi Arabia to promptly inform passengers of cancellations, delays and schedule changes, and arrange rebooking, refunds and other necessary assistance amid security-related disruptions at Saudi airports.

In a press release issued yesterday (12 October), Caab also instructed airlines to guide passengers requiring visa extensions or other immigration-related assistance to the relevant Saudi authorities, the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka and other concerned agencies.

Passengers have been advised not to travel to the airport without confirming their flight status, according to the directive signed by Group Captain SM Ragib Samad, executive director of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA).

Airlines told to ensure passenger welfare

Caab instructed airlines to notify affected passengers through SMS, telephone calls, emails, websites, social media and other available communication channels.

“Airlines must also provide clear information about revised departure times, rebooking procedures, refunds and other applicable arrangements,” the press release said.

The authority stressed that passengers who have already arrived at HSIA, or who reach the airport without knowing about the disruptions, must not be left unattended.

Airlines have also been directed to arrange seating, drinking water, refreshments, meals and other essential support where necessary.

“Special attention must be given to elderly passengers, children, persons with disabilities and other vulnerable travellers,” the statement said.

Each airline has been instructed to designate a responsible focal point, supported by adequate staff, to coordinate flight updates, passenger assistance and operational arrangements with airport authorities.

The airlines must immediately provide the focal points’ contact details to HSIA Flight Management and ensure the designated officials remain accessible throughout the disruptions, the press release added.

Visa concerns for stranded workers

The disruptions have raised concerns for Bangladeshi migrant workers travelling to Saudi Arabia, particularly those whose visas are nearing expiry while they remain stranded in Bangladesh.

Caab has directed airlines to guide affected passengers towards the relevant Saudi authorities and the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka for visa extensions and other immigration-related support.

State Minister for Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Nurul Haque said today (13 October) that the government was pursuing bilateral discussions with Saudi Arabia to extend visas for stranded workers so they could travel and join their workplaces.

He acknowledged that negotiations had become difficult following the recent security incident in Riyadh but expressed hope for a solution.

Caab has instructed all concerned airlines to implement the directions immediately and maintain close coordination with HSIA Flight Management to minimise passenger hardship and safeguard travellers’ welfare throughout the disruptions.