Oman Air Elevates Cargo Operations with Delivery of First 737-800 Freighter

Oman Air (WY), the national carrier of Oman, has marked a significant milestone with the delivery of its inaugural maindeck freighter, a B737-800(BCF). Boeing officially confirmed the handover of the aircraft, bearing registration A4O-BU (msn 35108), in a statement released on November 14, 2023. This acquisition is poised to play a pivotal role in expanding Oman Air’s cargo capacity and strengthening its position in the air cargo logistics sector.

The B737-800(BCF) underwent a transformation at the Taikoo (Shandong) Aircraft Engineering Co. Ltd. (STAECO) facility in Jinan, China, after serving as a passenger jet at Oman Air since 2008. As of the latest update, the freighter, A4O-BU, remains in China, poised to embark on a new chapter of its operational life.

“The freighter will contribute to the growth of the air cargo logistics sector in Oman and beyond, will be based at our strategically located Muscat hub, and will enhance our ability to connect East and West,” emphasized a spokesperson from Oman Air.

Traditionally operating a fleet exclusively configured for passengers, Oman Air’s current lineup includes four A330-200s, six A330-300s, thirteen B737-8s, nine B737-800s, five B737-900ERs, two B787-8s, and seven B787-9s, according to data from ch-aviation fleets. This new addition, the B737-800(BCF), marks the airline’s entry into the dedicated freighter segment.

Oman Air’s decision to introduce a freighter comes as the carrier witnesses a robust growth trajectory in cargo volumes, recording a remarkable 42% increase in the first six months of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. Until now, the airline transported cargo in the belly holds of its passenger aircraft.

With this strategic move, Oman Air aims to meet the rising demand for air cargo services, providing enhanced connectivity and logistical capabilities. The addition of the B737-800 freighter aligns with the airline’s commitment to delivering efficient and reliable cargo solutions, further establishing Oman Air as a key player in the evolving landscape of air freight.