Plans for thousands of people have been disrupted after Thai AirAsia X announced a flight halt to its direct flights between Bangkok and Riyadh. It’s a decision that spans from April 14 until June 30, 2026, that will be influenced by the recent combustible rise in aviation fuel prices.
This sudden move underscores both the impact this move will have on budget air travel, and the new normal in the airline industry – rising costs that impact airline services and prices worldwide.
Fuel Prices Push the Pause Button
This is a combination of the steep increase in the price of oil from around $80 to $140-plus a barrel. This increased price is now almost 50% of the total costs for low cost, long haul carriers like Thai AirAsia X.
This makes it unviable to operate routes such as Riyadh-Bangkok in the short to medium term. The termination of flights XJ920 and XJ921 is part of the costcutting strategy.
This is not the first time that our airline has reduced cost by optimising its flight patterns however it’s not uncommon to find that other airports and airlines have made similar moves to optimise flights, reduce frequency and even suspend the service.
Global Flight Patterns
The Riyadh-Bangkok cut is part of a route rationalisation. Thai Airasia X has also removed services to big cities such as Delhi, Tokyo and Osaka, and will even take its route to Shanghai offline.
These factors are also impacting other airlines, including legacy airlines. Some have cut back their flight schedule while others have increased fares to offset the increase in oil prices.
This has led to a decline in the number of flights, an increase in the number of fares and competition for seats – especially during the busy summer holiday period.
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What if your Flight is Cancelled?
There are several options for those whose flights are cancelled. Thai AirAsia X is offering a full refund for cancelled flights, although it can take 28 days for that to be processed.
Alternatively, they can receive a credit worth up to two years from the date of the scheduled flight, but this will be limited to flight bookings. They can also change their date of travel for free, valid until July 1 2026 (when the return to flights is expected).
Sometimes passengers can also be booked on a flight via Kuala Lumpur but this will lead to longer trips with layovers.
Impact on Summer Travel
The move comes at a crucial time, just before the summer holiday. This will mean that airports will have to source other budget airlines which will be more expensive.
This will mean that for Saudis, the only option to get to Thailand is to book with full-service, and therefore more expensive, airlines. This could result in a 15-20% to even greater price rise.
Lastly, due to limited capacity for airlines, it is important for travellers planning to visit in May and June to book tickets as soon as possible.
Alternative Travel Options to Consider
There are still some options for those impacted by this. If you can afford to pay a premium, the majority of full-service carriers (such as Saudia and Thai Airways) still operate flights from Riyadh to Bangkok.
Some Full Service Airlines can also get connecting flights via their hub cities. Routes through Kuala Lumpur and other Southeast Asia airports can be cheaper, but will add travel time.
The Philippines is also a good option for holidaymakers as flights to this country are reliable and affordable.
The flight cancellation is part of a broader trend in the airline industry as oil prices increase, forcing adjustments. This will affect low-cost airlines more, as they operate on smaller-profit margins.
Given the volatile nature of fuel prices, expect to see price and schedule changes. Flexibility and planning is key for 2016.
FAQs
1. Why is Thai AirAsia X going to halt flights from Riyadh to Bangkok?
The decision is due to rising oil prices, making the service unsustainable.
2. When will they restart?
Flights will be suspended between April 14 and June 30, 2026 and resumed in July.
3. Can I get a refund for my ticket?
Yes, refunds will be issued, albeit with a 28-day delay.
News3 weeks ago
