Avolon, the international aircraft leasing company, has made a firm commitment to lease three Airbus A330neo aircraft to Oman low-cost carrier SalamAir.
The agreement was formalized through a letter of intent signed at the Paris Air Show on June 19, 2023. The first delivery of the A330neo aircraft is expected to take place in October 2023.
SalamAir fleet expansion
The introduction of these three modern Airbus A330neo widebody aircraft will bring significant advantages to SalamAir and support the airline’s fleet and network expansion plans.
These planes feature a dual-class configuration, with 365 economy seats and 12 premium flatbed seats, providing enhanced passenger comfort and increased capacity.
Compared to SalamAir’s existing fleet, the A330neo offers a substantial increase in range, enabling the airline to efficiently serve medium-range destinations, particularly in the Far East and Europe.
This expanded reach not only improves passenger convenience but also enhances the airline’s competitiveness in the market.
One notable advantage of the A330neo is its improved fuel efficiency, resulting in reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions compared to previous generation aircraft.
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This aligns with SalamAir’s commitment to environmental sustainability and contributes to a decrease in operational costs for the airline.
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Captain Mohamed Ahmed, CEO of SalamAir, stated that the decision to introduce the Airbus A330neo complements their existing fleet of Airbus aircraft, which includes the A320neo, A321neo, and an A321 freighter.
By adding the A330neo to the fleet, SalamAir aims to enhance its capacity, meet the growing demands of the market, and attract more inbound tourists, aligning with Oman’s Vision 2040 objectives.
It also allows SalamAir to strengthen its network, seize opportunities for further growth and expansion, and improve its competitiveness.
Paul Geaney, President & Chief Commercial Officer of Avolon, expressed delight in welcoming SalamAir as a new customer.
He believes that the A330neo’s fuel-efficiency benefits will support SalamAir’s plans to provide their increasing number of passengers with greater capacity and comfort.
Geaney also mentioned that the Middle East is an area of focus for Avolon, with potential leasing opportunities as aviation traffic in the region continues to expand.
Mikail Houari, President, Africa and Middle East at Airbus, expressed delight in SalamAir’s choice of the A330neo aircraft.
He highlighted the A330neo’s unique operational versatility, cost and environmental benefits, superior fuel efficiency, extended range, advanced aerodynamics, technologies, and enhanced passenger comfort due to its spacious cabin.
Overall, the leasing of Airbus A330neo aircraft by SalamAir from Avolon marks a significant step for the airline’s growth plans, offering improved passenger experience, environmental sustainability, and enhanced competitiveness in the market.
About SalamAir
SalamAir is a low-cost airline based in Muscat, Oman. It was founded in 2016 and is the first low-cost airline in Oman.
SalamAir’s hub is Muscat International Airport, and it also flies to two other destinations in Oman – Salalah International Airport and Sohar Airport – as well as seven destinations in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
SalamAir’s fleet consists of Airbus A320-200 aircraft, each of which is configured with a single economy-class cabin seating 174 passengers.
The airline offers a variety of fares, including basic fares, flex fares and family fares. SalamAir also offers a loyalty program called SalamAir Plus.
The carrier has been praised for its low fares and its friendly customer service. It has also been recognized for its environmental initiatives, including its use of sustainable aviation fuel.
