MUSCAT : Oman Airports recently wrapped up a series of engaging discussions under its Ramadan Program – presented in cooperation and partnership with Radio Muscat FM – with the concluding episode featuring H.E. Al Maawali, who unveiled ambitious plans for the transportation sector, including the introduction of flights to Jabal Akhdar.

The Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing tourism accessibility and highlighted the plan to introduce flights to Jabal Akhdar.

Initially, these flights will connect Jabal Akhdar with Muscat, with future expansion plans to include neighboring countries. Additionally, the number of flights to Masirah Island will be increased, and new routes will be established to the Al Hallaniyat Islands and Wilayat Al Mazyouna.

During the sessions, the Minister discussed various strategic aspects of the transportation and aviation sector, outlining plans under the visionary leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik.

Key initiatives included efforts to address traffic congestion in Muscat through road projects and expansions led by the Muscat municipality. Plans for the Muscat Metro were also revealed, aiming to enhance urban mobility and connectivity.

Additionally, His Excellency emphasized Oman’s resilience amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting remarkable achievements in restoring growth. Passenger numbers surged by 40 percent, air traffic increased by 37 percent, and plans are underway to increase the number of airlines serving Oman’s airports, with over 140 destinations now accessible through Muscat International Airport.

The Minister also disclosed plans to accelerate efforts to establish Khasab Airport, with a design tender set to be issued this year. The location selection – Hattut area – aims to optimize airspace usage and minimize the impact of adverse weather conditions on aircraft operations. The airport is expected to be operational within 48 months.

Throughout the discussions, various topics were covered, including the national aviation strategy, customer experience, and provincial empowerment projects.

The announcements underscore Oman’s commitment to advancing its transportation and aviation sectors, paving the way for a prosperous future and enhanced connectivity within the Sultanate and beyond.

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