Kaushalendra Singh -
SALALAH, July 2 -
Salalah Air signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer for supply of two executive jets for the airline’s flight operations, preparations for which is in a final stage.
As per the MoU, Embraer has agreed to have long-term business cooperation in terms of aircraft supply and other technical support to ensure smooth operation of the low cost carrier in the Sultanate.
Both the parties underwent discussions and signed the MoU on Monday to supply two executive jets — Phenom 300 and Legacy 500 — which according to Tony Fitzpatrick of Embraer, would give a boost to corporate jet business in Oman.
The signatories to the MoU were Fitzpatrick from Embraer and Ali Masoud Mohammed, Managing Director and Board Member of Salalah Air. Present on the occasion were Mohammed al Arasha, CEO Salalah Air and other senior staff members of the newly launched airline. Al Arasha was hopeful of smooth logistics management, staff management and documentation etc to start the airline’s operation but refrained from committing any launch date. “Being first private airline of the Sultanate we had many teething troubles. Now we have almost reached the level from where operation can start.”
“Initially we will start with domestic charter operation and depending upon our licence upgradation our regional and other broader operations would start. Our current focus, however, is to launch the operation first,” he said.
“Phenom 300 is a light jet. The aircraft is big enough to carry up to 10 passengers in comfort and style. The 17-foot-long OvalLiteTM cabin offers more leg and head room and features the largest galley in its class,” said Fitzpatrick while talking about the specifications of the corporate jet.
The next-generation Phenom 300, according to Fitzpatrick, incorporates the same design philosophy and precision engineering as larger Embraer commercial and corporate jets — at a fraction of the cost.
“Measuring 74 cubic feet, the Phenom 300’s external baggage capacity is the largest in its class. It is big enough to accommodate your whole group’s luggage. An optional wardrobe keeps your suits wrinkle-free, and for additional convenience, the aircraft also offers 10 cubic feet of internal stowage space,” he said.
Legacy 500, which is to be delivered to Salalah Air after the delivery of Phenom 300, “is the first midsize jet with digital flight controls with full fly-by-wire, and a clean-sheet benchmark for the future in performance, passenger room and comfort. The 12-passenger Legacy 500 is the fastest jet in its class, delivering a high-speed cruise of Mach 0.82, excellent runway performance, and US coast-to-coast range for eight. It’s truly a product of rethinking convention.”
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