Muscat – Recent flight cancellations at Muscat International Airport, triggered by escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran, exposed a significant gap in hotel infrastructure near the terminal, raising concerns among passengers and airline officials alike.

As regional airspace closures led to delays and cancellations, hundreds of travellers were left stranded, revealing the airport’s limited capacity to accommodate passengers in crisis situations. Aerotel Muscat inside the terminal quickly filled up, with airlines left scrambling to find rooms across the city.

“I had my family with me, and the airline spent hours searching for a room,” said Rajeev PK Menon, an Indian expatriate working in Oman’s automobile sector. “The airline finally managed to arrange a hotel in Al Khuwair.”

Anna Vogel, a European traveller, said she ended up resting at a café. “There should be at least four to five hotels near an international airport like this,” she said. “A few mid-range options would help, especially for a short 24-hour stay.”

Taxi drivers also reported challenges. Saeed al Hinai said, “Several passengers asked me if I knew any nearby hotels. But this is not just during emergencies like this one – it’s a regular issue.”

An Oman Air official admitted the airline faced difficulties accommodating passengers. “What happened recently was rare, but it shows the need for better infrastructure near the airport. More budget-friendly hotels are essential. Travellers are already anxious – any unexpected commute after landing or before departure only adds to their stress.”