Omani flag carrier Oman Air is hoping to launch long-haul services before the end of this year using three leased long-haul aircraft, comprising two Boeing 767s and an Airbus A330.
It intends to begin operating connections to cities such as Frankfurt, London and Milan as well as the Asian destinations of Bangkok, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Oman Air is planning to acquire its own fleet of Airbus A330s, but the airline says it will not be able to obtain them until 2009.
The carrier has been looking to lease alternative widebody aircraft and has found two 767s and an A330 with which to re-enter the long-haul market.
"We expect to start these long-haul operations this year," says Oman Air. The airline is keen to build connections from its Muscat base, not only to strengthen its tourism industry, but also to prepare for the reduction in Gulf Air operations following Oman's decision to sell its stake in the carrier.
Source: Flight International
