Oman Airports push for more direct international flights
Eng Ahmed bin Saeed al Amri, CEO of Oman Airports, announced that discussions are underway with budget airline Wizz Air to launch direct routes from European cities—potentially including Budapest—to Oman. He indicated a high level of interest from the airline to commence operations soon.
In addition, cooperation is ongoing with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Oman to bring China Eastern Airlines to Muscat, with potential routes from Shanghai or Guangzhou. Parallel discussions are also being held with LOT Polish Airlines to establish direct flights between Muscat and Warsaw, with coordination underway between the Civil Aviation Authority and its Polish counterpart.
Al Amri noted that Oman Airports, together with Oman Air, is currently studying the Vietnamese market to assess the feasibility and benefits of launching new routes.
Regarding Salalah Airport, he highlighted a substantial increase in passenger numbers this year, particularly during the Khareef (monsoon) season, which sees a surge in domestic flights and routes from GCC countries. The winter season is also attracting direct flights from Scandinavian and Eastern European nations such as Belarus.
At Muscat International Airport, the CEO reported that passenger volumes are steadily recovering and now exceed pre-COVID levels. However, he noted a slight decline in transit passenger numbers due to Oman Air reducing its flight frequency and fleet size.
Al Amri also spoke about Oman Airports' strategic agreement with Singapore's Changi Airport to strengthen commercial and aviation-related revenues across Omani airports. The agreement includes plans to review all revenue streams, including aircraft parking charges and jet bridge usage.
Furthermore, Oman Airports has signed a memorandum of understanding with a Malaysian company to explore investment and development opportunities on lands located within the Muscat International Airport zone. — ONA
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