Muscat – Oman Air has denied claims circulating on social media that it has terminated 1,000 employees as part of its restructuring process. In an official statement, the national carrier clarified that no Omani employee has been dismissed. However, it acknowledged a surplus of 365 employees and said it is working with relevant authorities to find alternative solutions for them.

To support those affected, Oman Air has offered severance packages to employees who could not be placed in roles within the new organisational structure. The airline stated that sufficient notice of at least four weeks was provided to allow employees to make an informed decision without affecting their rights or employment benefits.

Oman Air has been undergoing a transformation programme since last year aimed at improving financial stability, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring long-term sustainability. This process has involved measures such as rationalising costs, optimising the route network and fleet, and renegotiating key contracts. A review of the company’s organisational structure was also carried out to determine the required workforce size, skills and competencies.

The airline stressed the need for international expertise to lead the transformation process, but it committed to replacing these positions with national talent by the end of the transformation period, expected in late 2027.

In a move to align its structure with aviation industry standards, Oman Air introduced a phased restructuring process over the past 18 months. During the first phase, the company offered severance packages exclusively for Omani employees, which some staff accepted. The restructuring process prioritised Omanis for available roles, leading to the termination of 426 expatriate employees.