Oman Air and SalamAir Strengthen Connectivity with Increased Flights and Capacity for Khareef Dhofar 2026
Operational Readiness Announced for Khareef Season
MUSCAT: Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has declared its operational readiness for the Khareef Dhofar 2026 season, which officially begins on June 21 and continues until September 20. The CAA has unveiled a detailed plan aimed at enhancing air connectivity and increasing capacity on the Muscat–Salalah route to meet the growing travel demand during this peak tourism period.
The comprehensive plan has been developed in collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure a seamless travel experience for visitors during one of Oman’s busiest tourism seasons.
Increased Flight Operations
According to the CAA, Oman Air will commence its seasonal operations from early July and continue until September 5. SalamAir will operate from early July through August 31, as part of an integrated strategy to accommodate the rising number of travelers heading to Dhofar Governorate.
Oman Air is set to operate up to 13 daily flights on the Muscat–Salalah route during peak periods, an increase from 12 daily flights in the 2025 Khareef season. The airline has already responded to strong demand by increasing services to 14 daily flights during certain peak times.
Similarly, SalamAir plans to operate up to 10 daily flights on the same route during peak periods, further enhancing capacity and supporting the anticipated surge in passenger traffic. The low-cost carrier aims to operate a total of 984 flights throughout the season, up from 962 flights in 2025, indicating improved operational readiness and expanded capacity.
Commitment to Enhanced Passenger Experience
Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Yafaei, Director-General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation in Dhofar Governorate, emphasized the authority’s commitment to bolstering Oman’s air transport system during the Khareef season. This includes increasing operational capacity, enhancing passenger services, and streamlining airport procedures to facilitate smooth travel.
The CAA is actively coordinating with relevant entities to improve operational efficiency and meet the rising demand between Muscat and Salalah while maintaining high service standards. Al Yafaei noted that the authority is closely monitoring the implementation of operational plans in collaboration with national carriers and other stakeholders to ensure flexibility and a rapid response to changing demand during peak periods.
Capacity Projections and Fare Structures
Data released by the CAA indicates that Oman Air’s projected seat capacity for the 2026 Khareef season will reach approximately 330,000 seats, compared to 313,000 seats in the previous year. SalamAir’s expected capacity stands at around 190,844 seats.
Oman Air anticipates carrying approximately 298,000 passengers during the season, an increase from 277,000 passengers in 2025, reflecting an 8% growth. SalamAir is forecasted to transport over 166,000 passengers, slightly up from more than 165,000 in the previous season.
The CAA confirmed that Oman Air will maintain the same ticket fares introduced in 2024 for Omani citizens, with return fares priced at RO54 and one-way fares at RO32. SalamAir continues to offer three flexible fare categories—early, standard, and late booking options—with varying baggage allowances. One-way fares start at RO9.99 for early bookings and can go up to RO56.99 for return trips with checked baggage under the late-booking category.
Strengthening Air Connectivity
Air connectivity during the Khareef 2026 season will also be enhanced through additional domestic and international routes. SalamAir will introduce direct flights to Salalah from Dammam and Baghdad, in addition to services connecting Muscat and Khasab.
Oman Air is set to launch a new Dubai–Salalah route on July 3, operating three flights per week. The airline has allocated around 18,000 seats for services between Salalah and various destinations across the GCC from July to September 2026, while also increasing seat capacity on peak travel days, particularly Thursdays and Saturdays.
Salalah Airport is expected to welcome 68 weekly flights operated by foreign carriers, including 39 flights from the United Arab Emirates through Air Arabia, flydubai, and Etihad Airways, 11 flights from Saudi Arabia via flynas, 14 flights from Qatar Airways, and four flights from India operated by Air India Express.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-06-15 15:03:00 • By the Editorial Desk
