Oman’s aviation ecosystem marked a year of strong performance and strategic expansion as Oman Airports, Oman Air, and SalamAir highlighted key achievements during their joint annual media briefing, underscoring the sector’s growing role in strengthening the Sultanate’s global connectivity and supporting tourism and economic diversification.

Oman Air, which launched a comprehensive transformation programme in 2023, reported an EBITDA of OMR 3.2 million for 2025 – positive for the first time in 15 years. The airline also achieved a OMR 27 million reduction in bank loans, marking the first year the airline has decreased its level of debt since 2009. These achievements sit alongside a 6% reduction in CASK – or “Cost Per Seat”, reflecting the ongoing impact of its transformation initiatives. In 2025, Oman Air carried 5.8 million passengers, an 8% increase over 2024, while achieving an 82% load factor, the result of its network optimization and fleet utilisation strategy. The result of its strategy to increase visitors into Oman, the airline also grew its point-to-point by 34% year-on-year.

Continuing to enhance global connectivity, Oman Air significantly expanded its international network in 2025 with the launch of direct routes to Amsterdam, Baghdad, Copenhagen and Taif, as well as a new direct route between Salalah and Moscow. Five additional routes have already been announced for 2026. The airline currently serves 45 destinations with a fleet of 33 aircraft, set to grow to 39 by 2029.

Oman Airports continued to strengthen its position as a key operator and enabler of the aviation ecosystem, achieving notable growth in 2025. Passenger traffic across the Sultanate’s airports reached approximately 15.2 million, alongside a 4% increase in air cargo volumes. This performance reflects rising travel demand and ongoing improvements in operational efficiency.

As part of its commitment to enhancing air connectivity, Oman Airports supported the expansion of its route network by attracting new airlines and deepening partnerships with existing carriers. In collaboration with Oman Air, the company also advanced the development of strategic destinations, further strengthening Oman’s links to regional and international markets. During the year, Oman Air launched new direct routes to key global cities, including Amsterdam and Beijing, reinforcing the Sultanate’s position as an emerging international aviation hub.

At the passenger experience level, Oman Airports achieved significant international recognition. Both Muscat International Airport and Salalah Airport were awarded the prestigious Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards by Airports Council International, highlighting the high standard of services and the company’s continuous commitment to enhancing the travel experience.

Further enriching passenger experience, a range of new offerings were introduced to the aviation ecosystem, including limousine services, valet parking, and meet-and-assist services. The opening of the Majan Lounge at Salalah Airport also marked a key milestone in elevating comfort and convenience for travelers.

On the international expansion front, Oman Airports extended its expertise beyond the Sultanate by providing operational and consultancy services for the Karbala Airport project in Iraq. Meanwhile, Transom expanded its regional footprint by delivering ground handling services across several airports in Tanzania, while QX advanced aviation fuel services—demonstrating the integrated growth of Oman’s aviation ecosystem and its strategic direction toward increased global presence.

Meanwhile, SalamAir continued to reinforce its role as Oman’s low-cost carrier, recording strong operational performance in 2025 by transporting more than 3.4 million passengers and operating over 22,000 flights across a network of more than 40 destinations, while maintaining an on-time performance rate of 83% and achieving a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of +17, reflecting growing customer satisfaction.

The airline generated approximately OMR 137 million in revenue, reflecting its growing contribution to Oman’s aviation and tourism sectors by offering accessible travel options and expanding connectivity with regional and international markets.

SalamAir also continued expanding into emerging markets across Africa, Asia, and Europe, introducing destinations such as Port Sudan, Nairobi, Kigali, Vienna, and Medan, while progressing with fleet expansion plans to reach 18 aircraft by 2026 and 25 aircraft by 2028 to support future network growth.

Aligned with the goals of Oman Vision 2040, Oman’s aviation sector continues to play a vital role in strengthening international connectivity, supporting tourism development, and advancing economic diversification. The sector is also investing in national talent development and accelerating digital transformation initiatives aimed at delivering a seamless and modern travel experience.

Officials from the three entities emphasized that the 2026–2030 strategic roadmap focuses on building a resilient, integrated aviation ecosystem that enhances Oman’s position as an emerging regional hub for travel, tourism, and global business connectivity.