SalamAir enters the long-haul market with three Airbus A330neos

SalamAir, an Oman-based low-cost carrier, has exciting plans to expand its fleet and enhance its services. The airline recently announced the introduction of three Airbus A330neo aircraft, which will be leased from Avolon. The Letter of Intent (LoI) was signed during the Paris Air Show on June 19, 2023, with deliveries expected to begin in October 2023.

According to Captain Mohamed Ahmed, the CEO of SalamAir, the decision to add the Airbus A330neo to their fleet aligns with their current lineup of Airbus aircraft, such as the A320neo, A321neo, and an A321 freighter. This strategic move is aimed at increasing the airline’s capacity to meet the growing market demand and attract more tourists to Oman, in line with the country’s Vision 2040 goals.

One of the key advantages of the A330neo is its extended range, which will enable SalamAir to efficiently serve medium-range destinations, especially in the Far East and Europe. This expanded reach not only enhances passenger convenience but also boosts the airline’s competitiveness in the market.

Presently, SalamAir operates six Airbus A320neo, six A321neo, and one A321 converted freighter, making the introduction of the A330neo a significant capacity expansion for the carrier. It is worth noting that there are no other Airbus aircraft orders in their current pipeline, as per data from ch-aviation.com.

Founded in 2016, SalamAir is based at Oman’s Muscat International Airport (MCT), which is also home to the country’s flag carrier, Oman Air. The airline’s growth plans don’t stop at the A330neo; they had previously ordered six Embraer E195-E2 aircraft with six additional options. The E195-E2 deliveries are scheduled to begin by the end of 2023, which, combined with the introduction of the A330neo, will significantly increase the airline’s total seat capacity.

As of now, SalamAir operates 59 routes, according to ch-aviation.com data. With these new aircraft additions, the airline is poised for further growth and improved services to cater to its passengers’ needs.