Oman’s SalamAir continues expansion with 15th aircraft

SalamAir, Oman’s rapidly expanding low-cost carrier, is accelerating its growth with the addition of its 15th aircraft. 

 

The newest jet, a state-of-the-art Airbus A321neo named Barr Al Hikman, pays tribute to the sultanate’s pristine coastal sanctuary, often referred to as the ‘Maldives of the Middle East’ for its striking seascapes and rich biodiversity.

 

Marking the start of an ambitious growth phase, the delivery sets the stage for SalamAir’s plans to expand its fleet to 25 aircraft by 2028 and establish a new operational base in Salalah.

 

The airline’s next phase includes leasing 10 more Airbus A320s over the coming three years, a move designed to increase capacity and broaden its network reach.

 

The expanding fleet underpins SalamAir’s strategy of maintaining competitive, year-round low fares while opening new domestic and regional routes. Since 2024, the airline has focused on connecting to destinations previously unserved by regular air travel.

 

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Alongside network expansion, SalamAir is also fueling job creation, with plans to add 182 new positions over the next 12 months, a 24% increase in its workforce.

 

“We firmly believe that Vision 2040 will be achieved through ambitious, forward-looking growth,” said Mohamed Bin Abdullah Al Khonji, Chairman of SalamAir.

 

He points out that compared to regional aviation heavyweights, Oman’s market remains relatively underdeveloped, but with “substantial headroom for growth” in the sultanate’s skies.

 

While the UAE operates more than 560 aircraft for its population of roughly 11 million, and Qatar maintains a fleet of around 230 aircraft serving just 3 million people, Oman’s airlines together fly fewer than 50 aircraft across a population of nearly five million.

 

This gap highlights the significant potential for expansion in Oman. Recent new routes, especially services linking Salalah with Baghdad and Bahrain, have proven popular with travellers eager to experience the lush Khareef season along Oman’s south coast.

 

Looking ahead, SalamAir plans to establish a new operational base in Salalah with two to three aircraft to support “regional development, bringing more visitors to Dhofar and stimulating year-round tourism and employment,” adds Al Khonji.