MUSCAT: Oman’s aviation sector is gearing up for a busy Dhofar Khareef season, with airlines increasing flights and seat capacity to accommodate growing demand for travel to Salalah between June and September.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said it has completed preparations for the 2026 Khareef season through a coordinated operational plan with airlines and aviation stakeholders aimed at boosting connectivity, expanding capacity and ensuring a smooth travel experience for visitors.
Under the plan, Oman Air will operate up to 13 daily flights between Muscat and Salalah during peak periods, compared with 12 flights last season, while some peak days will see services increased to 14 flights in response to demand. SalamAir plans to operate up to 10 daily flights on the route.
SalamAir will operate 984 flights during the season, up from 962 flights in 2025, reflecting higher capacity and stronger operational readiness.
Mohammed bin Ahmed al Yafei, Director-General of Civil Aviation in Dhofar Governorate, said the authority is working closely with airlines and relevant entities to enhance operational efficiency, improve passenger services and ensure flexibility in responding to demand surges during peak travel periods.
He said continuous monitoring of airline operations and airport readiness will help maintain service quality and support the growing popularity of Dhofar as one of Oman’s leading tourism destinations.
Oman Air is expected to offer around 330,000 seats during the season, up from 313,000 a year earlier, while SalamAir will provide about 190,844 seats.
Passenger traffic is also projected to rise. Oman Air expects to carry around 298,000 passengers during the season, compared with 277,000 last year, representing growth of about 8 per cent. SalamAir forecasts more than 166,000 passengers, slightly higher than the previous season.
The CAA said Oman Air will continue to offer discounted fares for Omani citizens, maintaining ticket prices introduced in 2024 at RO54 for return journeys and RO32 for one-way travel.
SalamAir will continue offering flexible fare options, with one-way fares starting from RO9.99 for early bookings.
International connectivity is also being strengthened. SalamAir will operate direct flights to Salalah from Dammam and Baghdad, while Oman Air will launch a Dubai-Salalah service on July 3 with three weekly flights.
Around 18,000 seats will be allocated on routes linking Salalah with GCC destinations between July and September, with additional capacity scheduled on high-demand travel days.
Salalah Airport is expected to welcome 68 weekly flights by foreign carriers during the season, including services from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and India, further enhancing access to one of the region’s most popular summer tourism destinations. — ONA
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