Oman Air launches flight to Phuket

Oman Air, the national carrier, launched its flight to Phuket, Thailand, on Tuesday. The first flight was celebrated with a ceremony at its First and Business Class check-in counter at Muscat International Airport. The airline has introduced four direct flights a week to the popular resort island, which boasts many of Thailand’s most famous and beautiful locations. Guests can enjoy their holiday from the moment they fly with Oman Air’s award-winning on-board amenities, including inflight entertainment, quality meal service and comfort touches, all designed to make every journey more comfortable, refreshing and seamless.

Abdoudy Nasser, Chief Commercial Officer of Oman Air, said, “As part of our network expansion programme, our new flights will address the huge demand for passenger travel between Muscat and Phuket, especially during the peak winter season. With nature, culture and plenty of activities, Phuket is an ideal family destination and, just five hours away from Muscat, it offers a great option for a getaway. Meanwhile, we continue to stay attuned to our guests’ needs, connect them to destinations they want to go and elevate their travel experience.”

Captain Nasser al Salmi, COO of Oman Air, explained how popular the destination is for tourists from Oman as well as travellers from Europe. He said currently there are 47 to 49 destinations and will see further expansion in destinations post pandemic.

The inaugural flight was fully booked with passengers from Oman and transit passengers connecting via Muscat to Phuket.

The Phuket Governor and other dignitaries along with Oman Air Country Manager and team were present at the reception held at the Phuket Airport to receive the passengers. The passengers were also welcomed with the traditional Thai hospitality and the added flavour was the monsoon shower that is the norm of the season during the evenings.

Oman Air’s Muscat-phuket flights will operate on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. The Tuesday flight from Muscat departed at 09:40 and arrived in Phuket at 19:00.

The Thursday flight from Muscat will depart at 22:50 and arrive in Phuket on Sunday at 08:00. The first flight on Saturday will depart Muscat at 09:40 and arrive in Phuket at 18:50, while the second flight will depart at 22:50 and arrive on Sunday at 08:00.

While Omani nationals do not need visa, other expatriates coming from Oman will have to apply for visa.

Captain Al Salmi said they will look into whether the number of flights in a week should be increased.