Muscat – Oman Air has turned profitable for the first time in 15 years posting an operating profit of RO3.2mn in 2025, marking a key milestone in the recovery of Oman’s aviation sector.

Speaking at a joint media briefing with Oman Airports and SalamAir on Monday, Con Korfiatis, CEO of Oman Air, said, “Oman Air’s turnaround marks a defining moment for the airline.”

He added that the positive EBITDA reflected disciplined cost management and a focus on sustainable growth. “The airline reduced its bank debt by RO27mn, the first such decline since 2009, while lowering cost per seat by 6%.”

Passenger demand strengthened during the year, with the airline flying 5.8mn travellers – up 8% year-on-year – and achieving a load factor of 82%. “Our network strategy is delivering results, particularly in point-to-point traffic, which grew 34%,” Korfiatis said.

The carrier expanded its international footprint with new routes to Amsterdam, Copenhagen and Baghdad. “We are committed to connecting Oman to high-potential markets while supporting inbound tourism,” he added.

SalamAir, the sultanate’s low-cost carrier, also reported solid performance. Adrian Hamilton-Manns, CEO of SalamAir, said, “We carried over 3.4mn passengers and maintained strong operational reliability.”

The airline generated RO137mn in revenue in 2025, reflecting its expanding role in supporting tourism and connectivity. “Our mission is to connect more people to Oman affordably, while maintaining efficiency and customer satisfaction,” he said, adding that the next phase would focus on resilience, digital innovation and integrated growth.

Oman Airports sees robust growth

Oman Airports reported continued operational growth. Saud al Hubaishi, Chief Operations Officer of Oman Airports, said, “Passenger traffic increased 6% year-on-year to reach 15.2mn in 2025, supported by rising travel demand and improved efficiencies.”

Cargo volumes rose 4% to 162,216 tonnes compared to the previous year. “This rise reflects both increased airline activity and improved airport capacity utilisation across the network,” he said.

Connectivity expanded during the year with the number of airline partners reaching 51 and destinations served increasing to 141. New direct routes to Amsterdam, Beijing and Rome were introduced, further consolidating Oman’s position within international travel corridors.

“By working closely with airlines and stakeholders, we are expanding connectivity and positioning Oman as an attractive transit and destination market,” Al Hubaishi said.

Officials said the coordinated progress across carriers and airport operators underlines aviation’s role in advancing economic diversification and reinforcing Oman’s ambition to strengthen its standing as a regional aviation hub.

SalamAir launches Salalah fare starting at RO9.99

SalamAir announced on Monday new tiered fare options for travel to Salalah across three booking classes.

The entry-level ‘No Baggage’ fare starts at RO9.99 one way and RO27.99 for a return ticket. A 20kg baggage option starts at RO18.99 one way and RO35.99 for a return.

Return fares under higher booking tiers go up to RO48.99 without baggage and RO56.99 with a 20kg baggage allowance, offering greater flexibility for travellers.