Saudia aircraft destroyed by fire at Riyadh airport during reported missile attack

A Saudi Arabian Airlines aircraft was destroyed by fire at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, with footage showing thick black smoke over the airport and flames close to airport buildings.

The aircraft was stationary and surrounded by emergency response vehicles as firefighters worked to control the blaze. It was empty at the time, and no casualties aboard have been reported. The fire was later extinguished.

The incident came amid a reported ballistic missile attack on Riyadh. The Houthi movement claimed responsibility, while Saudi authorities said incoming missiles were intercepted.

There is no independent confirmation that the missile attack directly caused the aircraft fire. What triggered the blaze, and whether debris from an intercepted missile was involved, remains unclear.

The incident occurred while heightened security measures were in place around the Saudi capital following the reported missile launches. The aircraft's registration and the extent of damage to airport infrastructure have not been confirmed.