SALALAH: Salalah Airport on Wednesday received the 18th aircraft of SalamAir, the Sultanate of Oman's low-cost carrier, bearing the name "Salalah" and of the Airbus A320neo type. This milestone is part of the airline's expansion strategy aimed at strengthening air connectivity and supporting the tourism sector in alignment with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
The aircraft operated its inaugural commercial flight between Muscat and Salalah, with a reception ceremony held at Salalah Airport in the presence of representatives from government entities, aviation sector partners and media, marking its official entry into the company's fleet.
Adrian Hamilton-Manns, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, stated that the addition of the 18th aircraft represents a new chapter in the company's growth trajectory, enhancing its operational capacity and providing greater flexibility to expand its route network while meeting the rising demand for air transport services.
He added that the fleet expansion has already facilitated the launch of new destinations this year, including Vienna, Medan, Mogadishu, Kigali and Sylhet, affirming the company's continued commitment to implementing its plans for additional destinations in support of the tourism sector and economic growth in the Sultanate of Oman.
On his turn, Zakariya bin Yaqoob al Harrasi, Deputy CEO of Oman Airports – Salalah Airport, noted that the reception of the new aircraft reflects the growing stature of Salalah Airport and its role in supporting air traffic. He reaffirmed continued collaboration with airlines to enhance air connectivity and deliver services that contribute to the growth of passenger movement.
Grainne van den Berg, Head of Marketing Airbus Africa and Middle-East at Airbus, stated that the delivery of the new aircraft underscores the strength of the partnership with SalamAir. She highlighted that the A320neo aircraft are distinguished by high operational efficiency, reduced fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, alongside advanced passenger comfort levels.
It is worth noting that SalamAir's current fleet comprises 18 Airbus A320neo aircraft, serving more than 40 destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe. — ONA
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