Muscat – Work is underway to establish the first integrated aircraft maintenance workshop in Oman, while efforts are also progressing to expand the domestic aviation network, according to H E Saeed bin Hamood Al Mawali, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology.

Speaking at a joint press conference held on Monday in Muscat, senior officials from Oman Airports, Oman Air and SalamAir highlighted strong performance across the aviation sector in 2025, supported by revenue growth, improved operational efficiency and an expanded network of destinations and services.

The three entities confirmed that their 2026-2030 strategy focuses on building an integrated aviation system that supports sustainable growth and enhances global connectivity, reinforcing the sultanate’s position as an emerging regional hub for aviation and tourism.

H E Al Mawali said the aviation sector remains a key pillar in achieving the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, playing a vital role in strengthening the competitiveness of the national economy at both regional and international levels.

He explained that the government has been implementing a comprehensive transformation plan since September 2023 aimed at rebuilding the sector, enhancing efficiency and improving financial performance.

“As a result of these efforts, Oman Air achieved operating profits in 2025 for the first time in nearly 15 years,” he said.

The minister noted that operational efficiency across the sector has improved, while international confidence in Omani aviation capabilities continues to grow.

Oman Airports has expanded its regional presence by providing airport management consultancy services at Karbala International Airport in Iraq, while Transom has expanded internationally by offering air cargo, ground handling and hospitality services in Tanzania.

He also highlighted Oman Air’s accession to the oneworld alliance, providing access to more than 900 global destinations, alongside the launch of five new international routes.

Regarding the Muscat Airport City project, H E Al Mawali said work has begun on the initiative, which is expected to transform the sultanate into a regional air logistics hub. Several associated projects, including air cargo and storage facilities, are already under development.

“The project will expand the aviation sector’s economic impact beyond passenger travel, creating an integrated ecosystem that combines logistics, commercial and tourism services,” he said.

The minister also confirmed that the government’s acquisition of SalamAir is part of a broader strategy to restructure the aviation sector and boost its competitiveness.

He stressed that Oman Air and SalamAir will continue to operate independently, both administratively and financially, while maintaining their respective fleets and commercial activities. Oversight will remain under the Civil Aviation Authority to ensure fair competition and consumer protection.

Destinations will continue to be managed according to each airline’s operating model, with SalamAir focusing on low-cost travel and Oman Air maintaining its full-service offering.

H E Al Mawali further informed that plans are progressing to establish a domestic aviation network linking governorates across the country, alongside the development of several local airports, particularly in tourism destinations such as Jabal Akhdar, Masirah Island and Suhar.

These projects, he said, will enhance domestic air connectivity, support tourism development and bring services closer to citizens, while also creating opportunities for future links to nearby regional destinations.

Looking ahead, the focus will remain on strengthening financial sustainability, accelerating growth and expanding regionally and internationally, he added.

The minister also noted that Oman has played a positive role in mitigating the impact of ongoing geopolitical challenges on aviation and port operations in the region by ensuring the continuity of supply chains and facilitating passenger travel.