Oman Air Cuts 1,000 Jobs in Major Restructuring Drive

Oman Air has laid off approximately 1,000 employees as part of a broader restructuring plan aimed at reducing costs and aligning its workforce with industry standards. Chairman Saeed bin Hamoud Al Maawali confirmed the move during a recent media briefing, noting that the airline had 4,300 employees before restructuring and plans to reduce that number to 2,700.

Half of those dismissed were foreign nationals. Oman Air previously announced on April 19 that it had let go of 487 expatriate staff over the past 18 months, some of whom have been replaced by local employees. As a result, the airline has increased its “Omanisation rate”—the percentage of Omani nationals in its workforce—from 74.8% in 2023 to 79.4% currently.

Al Maawali highlighted that 45% of the airline’s workforce had been comprised of “assignment employees,” or staff not directly involved in critical operational roles. In contrast, similar-sized airlines typically maintain a ratio closer to 15%. The workforce reduction is part of a wider initiative to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and return the carrier to a stronger financial footing.

Oman Air is also in the process of restructuring its network and fleet. According to ch-aviation data, the airline currently operates fifteen Boeing 737-8s, five 737-800s, one 737-800 freighter, four 737-900ERs, one Boeing 787-8, and seven 787-9s. Its widebody fleet also includes four inactive Airbus A330-200s and three A330-300s, which are scheduled for phase-out as part of the airline’s transformation strategy.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com