Muscat: Speaking exclusively to The Arabian Stories, Eng. Naif Al Abri, President of Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), highlighted that Oman’s latest global ranking in aviation security showcases the competitiveness and appeal of the Sultanate’s aviation ecosystem.

“The biggest achievement today is the global ranking of Oman when it comes to Civil Aviation security and facilitation. We are ranked third in the Middle East. This shows that the aviation eco-system is secure and attractive for the various airlines that come to Oman,” he said.

The Civil Aviation Authority outlined several key achievements during the media briefing. These include the issuance of operating permits to 19 foreign airlines and the approval of updated cybersecurity and civil aviation security policies. Operational guidelines were also activated for Duqm and Marmul airports, and a new air navigation radar has been commissioned in Jaalan Bani Bu Ali.

Statistically, the aviation sector recorded steady growth in 2024. Passenger traffic rose by 2 percent, while air freight surpassed 150,000 tons. Oman’s airspace also saw a significant surge, with 540,300 aircraft passing through—marking a 14 percent increase from the previous year. In total, over 120,000 flights were recorded.