MUSCAT: Oman’s aviation sector is gearing up for a busy Dhofar Khareef season, with airways rising flights and seat capability to accommodate rising demand for journey to Salalah between June and September.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) stated it has accomplished preparations for the 2026 Khareef season via a coordinated operational plan with airways and aviation stakeholders aimed toward boosting connectivity, increasing capability and making certain a clean journey expertise for guests.
Underneath the plan, Oman Air will function as much as 13 day by day flights between Muscat and Salalah throughout peak durations, in contrast with 12 flights final season, whereas some peak days will see providers elevated to 14 flights in response to demand. SalamAir plans to function as much as 10 day by day flights on the route.
SalamAir will function 984 flights in the course of the season, up from 962 flights in 2025, reflecting larger capability and stronger operational readiness.
Mohammed bin Ahmed al Yafei, Director-Basic of Civil Aviation in Dhofar Governorate, stated the authority is working carefully with airways and related entities to boost operational effectivity, enhance passenger providers and guarantee flexibility in responding to demand surges throughout peak journey durations.
He stated steady monitoring of airline operations and airport readiness will assist keep service high quality and help the rising recognition of Dhofar as considered one of Oman’s main tourism locations.
Oman Air is predicted to supply round 330,000 seats in the course of the season, up from 313,000 a 12 months earlier, whereas SalamAir will present about 190,844 seats.
Passenger visitors can also be projected to rise. Oman Air expects to hold round 298,000 passengers in the course of the season, in contrast with 277,000 final 12 months, representing development of about 8 per cent. SalamAir forecasts greater than 166,000 passengers, barely larger than the earlier season.
The CAA stated Oman Air will proceed to supply discounted fares for Omani residents, sustaining ticket costs launched in 2024 at RO54 for return journeys and RO32 for one-way journey.
SalamAir will proceed providing versatile fare choices, with one-way fares ranging from RO9.99 for early bookings.
Worldwide connectivity can also be being strengthened. SalamAir will function direct flights to Salalah from Dammam and Baghdad, whereas Oman Air will launch a Dubai-Salalah service on July 3 with three weekly flights.
Round 18,000 seats might be allotted on routes linking Salalah with GCC locations between July and September, with extra capability scheduled on high-demand journey days.
Salalah Airport is predicted to welcome 68 weekly flights by international carriers in the course of the season, together with providers from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and India, additional enhancing entry to one of many area’s hottest summer season tourism locations. — ONA
