Muscat – Oman Air and SalamAir have announced new chief executives, putting fresh leadership at the helm of the sultanate’s two airlines as the national carrier continues its financial turnaround, while the low-cost airline pursues further growth.

Oman Air has appointed Nasser Al Sharji as CEO from September 1, succeeding Con Korfiatis, who has led the carrier since May 2024 through one of the most significant restructuring periods in its recent history.

SalamAir has named Yaqoob bin Saif bin Hamoud Al Kiyumi as CEO with effect from October 1. He succeeds Adrian Hamilton-Manns as the budget airline focuses on expanding its network while maintaining its low-cost model.

The appointments, both announced on August 20, come as the two carriers pursue different but complementary strategies within Oman’s aviation sector.

For Oman Air, Al Sharji takes charge as the airline seeks to consolidate improvements made under its transformation programme, which has focused on financial sustainability, operational efficiency and organisational restructuring.

He brings more than 25 years of leadership and business transformation experience across aviation, logistics, oil and gas and government services. He has held senior positions at Asyad Group, OQ and Nama Water Services, and most recently served as CEO of Transom Handling and acting CEO of Oman Airports Management Company.

H E Saeed bin Hamood al Mawali, Chairman of Oman Air, said Al Sharji has a strong understanding of aviation and a record of managing organisations through change.

“We are confident that, under his leadership, Oman Air will continue to build on the significant progress achieved in recent years and further strengthen its position as Oman’s national carrier,” he said.

Korfiatis will remain with Oman Air as an adviser to the CEO, providing continuity during the leadership transition.

His tenure has centred on efforts to make the airline financially sustainable while improving efficiency and sharpening its commercial focus in an increasingly competitive Gulf aviation market.

At SalamAir, Al Kiyumi will take over as the airline targets sustainable growth, operational improvements and a stronger customer proposition.

The airline said his leadership would support its next phase of development while maintaining its commitment to affordable air travel and strengthening connections between Oman and overseas markets.

SalamAir’s board also thanked Hamilton-Manns for his leadership and contribution during his tenure.