Oman Air, based in Muscat, revealed that it has embarked on a significant restructuring effort by slashing 1,000 jobs, with half of them belonging to expatriate workers. This strategic move, accounting for almost 25% of the airline's workforce, aims to enhance operational efficiency and ensure financial longevity. Saeed bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology as well as Chairman of Oman Air and Oman Airports, emphasized the importance of realigning staffing levels to meet industry norms.

Prior to the restructuring, a staggering 45% of the airline's employees were considered non-core, a proportion significantly higher than regional averages. With approximately 4,300 staff members before the downsizing, Oman Air exceeded the industry benchmark for airlines of similar fleet sizes, currently standing at around 2,700 employees. The team reductions included a voluntary retirement initiative, where 310 employees opted for this program.

Apart from job cuts, the carrier offered other employees alternative roles within the company, maintaining comparable pay but with reduced benefits. Of the total workforce reductions, 400 were Omani nationals. Addressing rumors of aircraft sales to Qatar Airways, Al Maawali clarified that the planes had been auctioned publicly and involved older aircraft no longer in active service.

Presently, Oman Air operates with a fleet of 28 aircraft, although some Airbus A330s are listed as inactive. The fleet configuration mainly comprises Boeing 737s and Dreamliners. The airline's network spans 44 routes to 44 destinations across 25 countries. Despite a passenger decline in 2024, the unveiling of a new Muscat-Rome route showcased the airline's ambition for growth.

In other exciting news, the acting CEO of Oman Airports has unveiled plans for the old Muscat airport's development, highlighting new investment ventures to potentially bolster the local economy, such as supporting fish exports. Stay tuned for more updates on the aviation scene in Oman, right here on Pilotcenter.net News!