Monday 15 / June / 2026
Muscat : The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has confirmed its operational readiness for the 2026 Khareef Dhofar season (monsoon season), which astronomically begins on 21 June and continues until 20 September. This readiness has been achieved in partnership with strategic stakeholders through an integrated plan aimed at enhancing air connectivity and increasing capacity on the Muscat–Salalah route. The initiative responds to the growing passenger numbers and ensures a more efficient and seamless travel experience during this tourism season.
The Authority clarified that Oman Air’s operational period extends from early July until 5 September 2026, while Salam Air will operate from early July until 31 August 2026. These timelines form part of an integrated operational framework designed to boost readiness and accommodate the rising demand for travel to Dhofar Governorate.
Regarding the national carrier, the Authority stated that Oman Air’s operational plan includes operating up to a maximum of 13 daily flights during peak periods on Muscat–Salalah route, compared to 12 daily flights in the 2025 operational plan. In response to heightened demand, this was effectively increased to 14 flights on certain peak days.
Salam Air also intends to operate up to 10 daily flights during peak periods on the same route, thereby enhancing operational capacity and increasing seat availability to meet the surge in passenger movement during the autumn season.
Salam Air will operate 984 flights during the current season, compared to 962 flights in the 2025 season. This increase reflects a higher level of operational readiness and a greater ability to accommodate growing demand on this vital route.
Mohammed Ahmed Al-Yafi, Director General of Civil Aviation in Dhofar Governorate, affirmed the Authority’s commitment to raising the readiness of the air transport system during the Khareef season. This includes enhancing operational capacity on Muscat–Salalah route in line with increasing demand, along with improving passenger services and streamlining airport procedures to ensure smooth traffic flow and a high-quality travel experience throughout the season.
He noted that the Authority is working to strengthen integration among relevant entities and improve operational efficiency during the Khareef season. These efforts contribute to meeting increased travel demand between Muscat and Salalah and advancing the level of services offered to passengers.
Data indicates that the expected seat capacity for Oman Air during the 2026 Khareef season is approximately 330,000 seats, compared to 313,000 seats last year. Salam Air’s projected seat capacity stands at around 190,844 seats.
The Authority expects Oman Air to transport approximately 298,000 passengers during this tourism season, compared to 277,000 passengers last year, representing a growth rate of about 8 percent. Salam Air is projected to carry over 166,000 passengers, compared to over 165,000 passengers in the previous season, reflecting a growth rate of nearly 1 percent.
Regarding ticket prices for Omani nationals, the Authority clarified that Oman Air continues to apply the fares approved since 2024, amounting to RO 54 for a round trip and RO 32 for a one-way ticket.
Salam Air, for its part, offers three flexible pricing packages: early, mid-term, and late booking, with various baggage options. One-way fares start at RO 9.99 for early bookings and go up to RO 56.99 for round trips with checked baggage under the late booking category.
This year’s Khareef Dhofar season will witness strengthened domestic and international air connectivity. Salam Air operates direct flights to Salalah from Dammam and Baghdad, in addition to the Muscat–Khasab route.
Oman Air is also launching a Dubai–Salalah route starting 3 July 2026, with three weekly flights, allocating approximately 18,000 seats for flights between Salalah and GCC destinations during the period from July to September 2026. Additional seat capacity will be provided on peak days, particularly Thursdays and Saturdays, in line with seasonal demand patterns.
Salalah Airport will see 68 flights operated by foreign airlines, including 39 flights from the United Arab Emirates via Air Arabia (Sharjah and Abu Dhabi), flydubai, and Etihad Airways; 11 flights from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia via flynas; 14 flights from the State of Qatar via Qatar Airways; and 4 flights from India via Air India Express.
