Oman Air to join the Oneworld alliance

Oman Air is to become part of the Oneworld Alliance following an announcement in Doha today by the alliance’s board of governors meeting alongside the IATA annual general meeting.

Oman Air CEO Eng Abdulaziz Al Raisi (seated, left) and oneworld CEO Rob Gurney (seated, right) sign the agreement for Oman Air to join oneworld in Doha at the IATA Annual General Meeting

Qatar Airways will act as sponsor for Oman Air’s entry into oneworld, providing guidance and support as the airline integrates into the alliance.

The move further strengthens the alliance’s position in the MENA region as Oman Air joins Qatar Airways Royal Air Maroc and Royal Jordanian

The Muscat-based carrier expects to be formally implemented into the alliance in 2024, following which it will provide the full range of oneworld benefits to customers travelling on its flights. Members of Oman Air’s Sindbad frequent flyer programme will be able to earn and redeem miles on all oneworld member airlines – which includes American Airlines and BA, with top tier members receiving additional benefits including lounge access when travelling with other oneworld members.

Oman Air’s joining will add new destinations to the oneworld network including Duqm and Khasab in Oman and Chittagong (Bangladesh). oneworld Emerald, oneworld Sapphire and premium cabin customers will also gain access to three Oman Air lounges at Muscat, Salalah and Bangkok.

Launched in 1993, Oman Air is the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman. From its roots as a domestic airline, it has transformed into an international carrier serving 41 destinations in more than 20 territories. It operates a modern fleet of more than 40 aircraft comprising Boeing 737s, 787s and Airbus A330s. Configured in a two or three-class cabin, Oman Air’s aircraft offer exclusive First Class Private Suites on longer-haul flights. The airline has received several awards including most recently the APEX Passenger Choice Award for Best Seat Comfort in the Middle East.

Oneworld governing board chairman and Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker said: “Today marks a new milestone in oneworld, as our friends at Oman Air become a member elect of our award-winning alliance. Passengers of Oman Air will be offered a seamless travel journey, connecting them to more than 900 destinations across 170 countries. As the chairman of oneworld, we look forward to welcoming Oman Air into our alliance as they will bring great benefits, allowing passengers to discover not just a new member with an excellent reputation, but a beautiful country.”

Oneworld CEO Rob Gurney said: “With its network in Muscat and award-winning customer service, Oman Air will reinforce our position as the premier airline alliance for global travellers. As the global travel industry continues to recover from the pandemic, the significant growth of oneworld in recent years demonstrates how important alliances and partnerships will continue to be.”

Oman Air CEO Eng Abdulaziz Al Raisi said: “Oman Air's admittance into oneworld represents a defining moment in our journey to provide passengers with greater travel options through our developing partnerships and alliances. We're delighted to be joining the world's foremost airline alliance at a time when demand for travel is on the rise. We look forward to welcoming oneworld members onboard Oman Air to experience the height of Omani hospitality and all that the Sultanate of Oman has to offer in terms of history, culture and natural beauty.”