Oman Air is set to acquire a 90% stake in SalamAir, to help strengthen the country’s aviation sector while maintaining both carriers as distinct brands serving different market segments.
Under the structure of the deal, Oman Air will continue as the Sultanate’s full-service flag carrier, while SalamAir will retain its role as a low-cost operator focused on price-sensitive regional travel. The dual-brand approach is intended to preserve customer choice while improving coordination across the market.
The transaction forms part of a broader government strategy to enhance efficiency, resilience and competitiveness in line with Oman Vision 2040, which identifies aviation as a key driver of economic diversification, tourism and connectivity.
International law firm Bird & Bird acted as legal adviser to Oman Air on the deal, supporting the airline on the international aspects of the acquisition alongside local counsel in Oman.
The closer alignment between the two carriers is expected to deliver operational and financial benefits, including potential cost efficiencies, improved revenue management and greater coordination across shared aviation services such as ground handling.
For SalamAir, the transaction provides stronger government backing as it continues to expand its network across the Middle East, South Asia and East Africa. Since launching in 2016, the Muscat-based airline has played an increasing role in supporting regional connectivity and inbound tourism.
The acquisition also reflects a broader trend of consolidation in the aviation sector, as governments and airlines seek to balance scale, cost discipline and market segmentation in an increasingly competitive environment.
By combining Oman Air’s full-service offering with SalamAir’s low-cost model under a coordinated framework, the government aims to create a more structured and sustainable aviation ecosystem while retaining clear positioning for both carriers.