Manchester Airport becomes first outside London with direct route to Oman

Middle Eastern airline Oman Air has launched its daily service between Manchester and Muscat.

The carrier said its new route to the Omani capital, which is the only service of its kind in the UK outside London, forms part of a wider strategy to expand its fleet and network.

The inaugural flight landed in Manchester at 19.05 on May 1, carrying CEO Paul Gregorowitsch along with a host of dignitaries, media and members of the Oman Air senior management team.

Officials from Manchester Airport and the city’s Lord Mayor were on hand to greet the passengers upon arrival.

Oman Air’s new Manchester service will take 7.5 hours and leave the airport every day at 20.45, touching down in Muscat at 07.20 the day following. Return flights will depart Muscat International Airport at 14.00 to arrive in Manchester at 19.05.

The route is operated by an A330-200.

Oman Air chief exec Paul Gregorowitsch said: “The addition of this flight to and from Manchester is a pivotal development and demonstrates our commitment to the UK market.

“Oman Air is the only carrier operating direct flights to the Sultanate outside of London, offering British and Omani travellers the convenience of flying direct between the north of England and Muscat.”

He continued: “There is of course also the opportunity to connect with Oman Air’s global network, over 27 destinations have connectivity inside of three hours in both directions and our extremely keen pricing means that Oman Air offers a really attractive option for travellers from Manchester or those visiting from Oman.”

Manchester Airport deputy CEO Collette Roche commented: “It is pleasing to see Oman Air commence daily direct flights to Muscat from Manchester.

“As well as connecting these two cities, the route opens up access to the airline’s incredible onward connectivity across Asia and beyond.”

She added: “The fact this route in the UK can only be found at Manchester outside of London clearly showcases the role we play as a gateway for the North. We look forward to working with Oman Air as they grow from Manchester.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →