The total number of passengers (arrival, departure and transit) that used the airports of the Sultanate of Oman reached 4,209,846 until April 2023. The figure represents a significant increase from the same period last year, indicating a steady growth in the aviation industry in Oman. Also, until April 2023, Omani airports have witnessed a total of 28,265 flights taking off and landing.
According to a preliminary report issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), Muscat International Airport saw the highest number of passengers, with a total of 3,792,212 until April 2023, a 91.1 per cent increase compared to the same period last year with 1,984,428 passengers. The number of flights through the airport itself also increased by 78 per cent, to reach 28,939 flights, compared to 16,262 flights by the end of April 2022.
This growth in passenger traffic can be attributed to the increased connectivity and expansion of Oman's aviation industry. The country has been investing heavily in its airports and infrastructure to attract more tourists and business travelers.
Indian nationals were the top passengers using the Muscat International Airport with both arrivals and departures reaching 144,496 passengers. This was followed by Bangladeshis with 42,148 passengers and Pakistanis with 36,547 passengers.
Salalah Airport recorded 390,355 passengers until April 2023, a 36.8 per cent increase compared to the same period last year with 285,300 passengers. It also noted a 30.9 per cent increase in the number of flights with 2,842 compared to 2,121 until April 2022.
Meanwhile, Suhar Airport recorded a decline in both number of passengers and flights. Until April 2023 the airport recorded 5,669 passengers compared to 33,228 last year or an 82.9 per cent decline. It recorded 86 flights compared to 296 flights last year or a 70.9 per cent decrease.
On the other hand, Duqm Airport recorded a minimal 2.7 per cent increase in the number of passengers until April 2023 with 21,610 compared to 21,051 until April 2022. However, it noted a 9.7 per cent decrease in the number of flights to 204 from 226 last year.
The airports in Oman have been implementing various initiatives to enhance the passenger experience, including the implementation of advanced technologies and digital solutions to streamline processes and reduce waiting times.
With the steady growth in passenger traffic, Omani airports are expected to continue investing in infrastructure and services to meet the growing demand and maintain the country's position as a leading aviation hub in the region.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
