Riyadh Airport Fuel Tanks Hit By Missiles 5 Weeks Before Delta Begins Atlanta Nonstop

Five weeks prior to the commencement of Delta Air Lines’ planned nonstop service between Riyadh and Atlanta, Saudi Arabia's King Khalid International Airport experienced a significant security incident. Ballistic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) targeted the area surrounding the airfield complex. The attacks resulted in fires impacting fuel storage tanks located at the airport. Emergency response teams immediately deployed to combat the resulting blaze. This event occurred on January 18, 2024, raising concerns about operational readiness ahead of the anticipated airline route launch.