Muscat: The summer holidays of various Indian schools in Oman will close earlier than usual this year, coinciding with the Eid al-Adha holidays, which are expected to be in the third week of May.
According to estimates analyzed by the Observer, the airfare trends from Oman to India starting May 21, 2026, are showing a major upward trajectory due to the peak holiday season, coupled with issues such as fuel surcharges and disruptions in the supply of aviation fuel in some markets.
Prices for late May are currently 20 to 50 percent higher, with the one-way fare touching the RO100 to RO150 range for most of the demand days. Fares do vary depending on the weekends, weekdays, and other factors.
Currently, Mumbai (served by OmanAir, SalamAir, and Air India Express) is the most competitive route with fares starting around RO55–65 due to high frequency and multiple options, which can be rated as above average but reasonable under circumstances.
Fares to destinations like Hyderabad, Delhi, and Bengaluru have been affected by the reduction in the capacity and subsequent uncertainties in the frequency of Indian operators.
The other sectors, such as Mangaluru (IXE) and Lucknow (LKO), are affected due to a lack of competition among airlines.
According to industry sources, some individual routes can be found for low fares on certain days; travellers need to keep track of the constant changes in the situation.
The airfares have also been disrupted by the closure of the airports and airspaces in the region, forcing the airlines traveling to the GCC (outside Oman) to opt for alternative arrangements that consume more time and fuel.
With Mumbai offering relatively low fares from Oman, passengers are exploring travel by train to onward destinations at the cost of a day or two of their vacation.
Another worrying factor for most residents is the possibility of the resumption of the conflict in the region if the ongoing talks between Iran and the US do not meet their desired results.
According to Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association, there is an almost direct correlation between the oil price and ticket prices, and the industry will respond through higher fares.
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