SalamAir, Oman’s low-cost carrier, has taken a major step to enhance its operational reliability and maintenance efficiency by entering a long-term Flight Hour Services (FHS) agreement with Airbus. The deal is designed to optimize the performance of the airline’s Airbus A320 family fleet while supporting its long-term growth and Oman Vision 2040 objectives.
Strengthening maintenance and operational efficiency
Under this partnership, Airbus will provide SalamAir with comprehensive FHS support, which includes component services, repair management, and on-site stock. By leveraging Airbus’ global expertise and predictive maintenance technology, the airline aims to:
- Reduce
aircraft downtime and turnaround times. - Improve fleet availability and dispatch reliability.
- Ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining high safety and performance standards.
This agreement is set to benefit SalamAir’s current fleet immediately and is structured to accommodate the airline’s planned fleet expansion in the coming years.
Airline leadership on the strategic partnership
Olcay Turker, Chief Financial Officer of SalamAir, highlighted the significance of the collaboration:“This partnership with Airbus marks another milestone in SalamAir’s journey to build a smarter, more resilient, and sustainably growing operation. As we expand our fleet and network in line with our long-term growth strategy, strengthening our maintenance and support ecosystem is essential. Airbus’ Flight Hour Services will equip us with the agility and technical assurance needed to uphold operational excellence and ensure the highest levels of safety and reliability for our passengers.”Adil Al Sheibani, Director of Engineering at SalamAir, added:“The FHS solutions bring a significant enhancement to our maintenance operations by providing faster access to high-quality components, real-time technical data, and global repair expertise. This partnership will improve efficiency across our maintenance cycles, reduce aircraft downtime, and ensure that our fleet consistently meets the highest performance standards.”
Airbus’ role and capabilities
Marc Muller, Regional Head of Commercial Services at Airbus Africa & Middle East, emphasized the company’s commitment:“We are delighted to support SalamAir through our FHS solution, providing access to Airbus’ integrated component management, repair, and logistics capabilities. By combining predictive maintenance with real-time fleet data, FHS will help SalamAir improve dispatch reliability, reduce maintenance lead times, and optimize aircraft availability. This partnership ensures that SalamAir’s fleet operates at peak performance, reinforcing our shared focus on safety, efficiency, and operational excellence.”Airbus’ FHS offering integrates predictive maintenance technology, global repair expertise, and logistics support. This approach allows airlines like SalamAir to maintain consistent aircraft performance while keeping operational costs under control.
Alignment with Oman vision 2040
Beyond operational gains, the agreement reflects SalamAir’s broader strategic goals and the national vision for aviation:
- Strengthening the airline’s technical infrastructure and operational resilience.
- Supporting innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in Oman’s aviation and logistics sectors.
- Preparing for the integration of new aircraft expected to arrive in the coming years.
By enhancing fleet reliability and efficiency, SalamAir contributes to Oman Vision 2040’s objectives of modernizing national aviation, fostering sustainable growth, and advancing technological innovation.Airbus is Europe’s leading aeronautics and space company, providing products, services, and integrated solutions across commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense, and space sectors. With over five decades of engineering excellence, Airbus focuses on:
- Developing next-generation aircraft that are lighter, safer, more efficient, and increasingly powered by sustainable fuels.
- Connecting communities globally through commercial aircraft and helicopters.
- Supporting national security and global connectivity via military platforms and satellites.
Airbus continues to drive innovation in aviation and aerospace, positioning itself as a central player in creating a safe, connected, and sustainable future.
