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Oman Air’s oneworld Launch Appears Imminent
Sep 1, 2024
Two years ago, Oman Air announced its intention to join the oneworld alliance, which is headed by American Airlines and based in Dallas. The alliance includes members such as British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Qantas.
The launch now appears imminent. Oneworld member Alaska Airlines has added a partner page for Oman Air.
"Oman Air is joining oneworld®. Coming soon, Mileage Plan members can earn and redeem on Oman Air."
While availability has not yet been found on Alaska’s website, it suggests that the integration is forthcoming.
Currently, Oman Air partners with Air Canada Aeroplan and Air France KLM Flying Blue. However, issues often arise with these programs seeing and ticketing Oman Air award space. It remains unclear whether these partnerships will continue beyond the airline's integration into oneworld.
Founded in 1993 using a Boeing 737-300 and crew from Ansett Australia to fly from its hub in Muscat, Oman Air initially struggled as a regional carrier. In 2007, the government increased its ownership stake from one-third to 80% by injecting cash into the airline. Following Abu Dhabi's example of splitting from Gulf Air, Oman launched services to Europe (London) and Southeast Asia (Bangkok). Over the next three years, the government grew its stake in the airline to 99.8%.
Oman Air flies to destinations beyond the Middle East such as Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur; several destinations in Europe; a broad network into India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Bangladesh; as well as flights to Northern Africa within the Gulf region and four destinations inside Oman.
Despite following Islamic dietary laws with its meals, Oman Air serves alcohol on flights beyond the Middle East—except on routes where alcohol is prohibited or during Ramadan. The airline offers flat beds in long-haul business class but will rebrand its first-class cabin this month as ‘business studio.’
Credit: Oman Air
Oman Air’s frequent flyer program is called Sindbad Club. Although they have occasionally offered status matches in the past, most recent requests have reportedly been denied.
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