MUSCAT : In an official statement, Oman Air affirmed that both carriers will continue to operate as independent entities, each maintaining its own administrative and financial structures, fleets, and commercial offerings. This independence, the airline stressed, ensures that competition will remain a core and sustainable feature of the market.

The airline described the acquisition as part of a broader strategic direction to restructure and strengthen Oman’s aviation sector, creating a more efficient and resilient operating environment. The initiative is intended to enhance airlines’ performance and support sustainable growth at both local and international levels.

Oman Air also underscored that the sector remains under the oversight of the Civil Aviation Authority, which enforces strict regulations to ensure fair competition and consumer protection. The regulator’s framework, the statement noted, is internationally recognized.

Addressing past market dynamics, the airline acknowledged that intense competition between Oman Air and SalamAir on overlapping routes—alongside pressure from larger regional carriers—had contributed to significant financial losses. The government’s intervention, it said, was necessary to stabilize SalamAir and preserve it as a sustainable second national operator within a revised competitive framework.

Under the new structure, Oman Air indicated that route planning between the two airlines would be optimized, enabling expansion of the national air network, increased destinations, and higher passenger traffic. This is expected to support broader economic objectives, particularly in tourism and related sectors.
The airline further noted that Oman’s aviation market is still developing compared to more mature markets with multiple operators. External competition from major regional and international airlines continues to shape the landscape, highlighting the need for reorganization and clearer competitive rules to ensure long-term sector growth.

Oman Air added that the acquisition would also promote greater integration between national carriers, strengthening their regional competitiveness and ensuring continuity of air connectivity under all circumstances, including emergencies.

The airline concluded by expressing appreciation for constructive public and media feedback on the issue.

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