Muscat International Airport-based SalamAir received the first of two Airbus A321neo aircraft yesterday as it seeks to expand its reach from the Sultanate of Oman. Able to deliver a high comfort level, the new aircraft will help SalamAir expand its network to new destinations in Europe, the Far East, and Africa.

Leased from GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), the aircraft named Masirah W with the registration number A4O-OXA will add to the Arabian Peninsula carriers fleet of six A320neos. With the arrival of the new Airbus A321neo, SalamAir becomes one of the first airlines to operate the plane in the Middle East.

SalamAir is a fast-growing Middle Eastern LCC

When speaking about the new 212 seat aircraft, GECAS SVP & Region Manager Michael O'Mahony said,

"GECAS is pleased to deliver our first aircraft with SalamAir, one of the fastest-growing low-cost carriers in the Middle East. These CFM LEAP-powered aircraft will assist in their expansion into locations in Asia and Europe."

SalamAir Airbus A321neo cabin.
The SalamAir Airbus A321neo has 32 more seats than the SalamAir A320neo. Photo: SalamAir

The aircraft's extended range and its ability to fly non-stop for up to eight hours meet SalamAir's ambitious plans of connecting the Sultanate to the rest of the world. By adding long-range fuel-efficient aircraft to its fleet, SalamAir is working to meet the countries desire to open up to international tourists.

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Oman wants to encourage tourism

In a company statement announcing the arrival of the new plane Captain Mohamed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir, said,

"We are pleased to introduce the newest A321neo aircraft into our fleet as we continue to expand our network. The induction of the A321neo aircraft marks another step towards meeting the needs of international, regional, and domestic passengers in the perpetually growing aviation market.

"The employment of this aircraft to our fleet with its additional range and extra 32 seats to our existing A320neo will support the growth plans of our airline's network. We are honored to supplement our airline's fleet with a new aircraft that offers lower operating costs, superior eco commitment, and greater comfort for our passengers."

He added, "We are also delighted that SalamAir is well-positioned to be part of and help accelerate Oman's air travel growth and Vison Oman 2040, contributing to the growth of the country is one of the main goals of our company."

Mikail Houari, President, Airbus Africa, and the Middle East said,

"We are proud of our partnership with SalamAir. The A321neo is a state-of-the-art aircraft that will help expand the airline's network whilst bringing significant savings to the airline and optimum Passenger comfort.

"We look forward to celebrating many more successes and milestones together for years to come," Houari added.

According to aviation data and statistics website ch-aviation, SalamAir plans to deploy its new Airbus A321neo on routes out of Muscat International Airport (MCT) to the following destinations:

  • Starting September 11, seven weekly flights to Salalah International Airport (SLL) in Oman
  • Starting September 12, a single rotation to Trabzon Airport (TZX) in Turkey
  • Beginning September 13, a single weekly flight to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW)
  • Starting September 14, five weekly flights to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

SalamAir has an average age fleet of 2.2 years

According to the Swiss website, the aircraft is configured with 212 seats comprising four business class seats and 208 economy class seats. With one of the youngest fleets in the Middle East SalamAir flies its six Airbus A320neos and new Airbus A3231neo to over 84 airports in 35 countries.

SalamAir Airbus A320neo
SalamAir has six Airbus A320neos in its fleet. Photo: Salam Air

Have you ever flown with SalamAir? If so, please tell us what you think about them in the comments.