Saudia suspends Toronto service following diplomatic spat

August 7, 2018

Souring diplomatic relations between Canada and Saudi Arabia has lead to a suspension of Saudia flights between the two countries.

The move follows Riyadh’s decision to expel Canada’s ambassador in response to “Canadian statements in defence of human rights activists detained in the kingdom,” says Ottawa..

“Canada will always stand up for the protection of human rights, including women’s rights and freedom of expression around the world. We will never hesitate to promote these values and we believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy,” said the Canadian government..

All Saudia flights to and from Toronto, its only Canadian destination, will be suspended from Monday, August 13, said the airline in a Tweet yesterday.

James Graham

James Graham is an award-winning transport media journalist with a long background in the commercial freight sector, including commercial aviation and the aviation supply chain. He was the initial Air Cargo Week journalist and retuned later for a stint as editor. He continues his association as editor of the monthly supplements. He has reported for the newspaper from global locations as well as the UK.