Oman Airports’ Initiative for Direct International Flights: How It Will Impact Your Business Opportunities
MUSCAT: Oman Airports is making concerted efforts to attract more international airlines to operate direct flights to various airports across the Sultanate of Oman, with the goal of increasing airport revenues and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Eng Ahmed bin Saeed al Amri, CEO of Oman Airports, announced ongoing discussions with budget airline Wizz Air about launching direct routes from European cities, potentially including Budapest, to Oman. He mentioned a strong interest from the airline to begin operations in the near future.
Additionally, collaboration is ongoing with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Oman to facilitate the entry of China Eastern Airlines into Muscat, with planned routes from Shanghai or Guangzhou. Simultaneously, talks are being held with LOT Polish Airlines to establish direct flights between Muscat and Warsaw, with coordination between the Civil Aviation Authority of Oman and its Polish counterpart.
Al Amri indicated that Oman Airports and Oman Air are actively examining the Vietnamese market to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of introducing new routes.
Regarding Salalah Airport, he reported a significant increase in passenger numbers this year, especially during the Khareef (monsoon) season, which has seen a rise in domestic flights as well as routes from GCC countries. The winter season is also anticipated to welcome direct flights from Scandinavian and Eastern European nations, including Belarus.
At Muscat International Airport, the CEO noted that passenger volumes are steadily recovering and now surpass pre-COVID levels. However, he observed a slight decrease in transit passenger numbers, attributed to Oman Air reducing its flight frequency and fleet size.
Al Amri also discussed a strategic agreement between Oman Airports and Singapore’s Changi Airport aimed at enhancing commercial and aviation-related revenues across Omani airports. This agreement includes plans to review various revenue streams, such as aircraft parking fees and jet bridge usage.
Moreover, Oman Airports has signed a memorandum of understanding with a Malaysian company to explore investment and development opportunities on lands within the Muscat International Airport zone. — ONA
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman Airports’ push to attract international carriers represents a significant opportunity for businesses in Oman as enhanced connectivity can stimulate tourism and trade. However, smart investors should remain cautious about the impact of reduced transit passenger numbers on market dynamics, while also exploring partnerships related to the anticipated growth in direct routes and airport revenue streams. This strategic focus on international connections could position Oman as a key player in the regional aviation landscape.
