Oman Air to focus on increasing frequencies

Sorial said the flights to China have been successful and they connect well with our services to Kenya, Iran, Jordan and Cairo.

Similarly, Nairobi operations have been well-received by passengers who travel onwards to China and the Indian sub-continent.

He said the airline is studying more destinations from China as it is a big market. “We review possibilities every week to explore possible new destinations where we can fly.”

He maintained that the destinations to the US and Australia have been ruled out because of the issues related to long flying hours and aircraft utilisation.

The airline would rather focus on strengthening the current network.

Sorial said the East Europe is always in the wish-list but it is not easy because we must study the routes, see profitability and need to be meticulous. “We need strong networks to feed these routes and connect the dots, probably in future when we decide to fly to the US.”

He said the new baggage launched in January this year has received mixed response. “There is always some resistance when changes are introduced. We have been hearing all the views and will look into the responses.

We also need to market the pros of this policy so far. It is important to hear the market.”

He said the new baggage policy will be reviewed later this year, but there are no plans to go back on it.

The decision was initiated taking into account factors such as the payload as the aircraft are mostly narrow-bodied, and for security concerns.

Some enhancements or benefits will be offered to consumers with regards to kilograms and prices.

Among other routes, he said Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta and Bangkok have been doing well, with frequencies to Kuala Lumpur and Thailand (thrice daily) to be increased soon.

Sorial said the airline is looking to diversify by marketing its premium business and the first class products.

The airline plans to have 70 aircraft for 73 destinations by 2023.

Sorial said the airline has been moving on the right path for sustainable growth with the support of the Ministry of Tourism despite the challenges.“We have a clear vision, we want to be the best.