Airports of Oman English

Past, Present and Prosperous Future
In the Name of Allah Most Gracious Most Merciful
“There is no doubt that our opening of

Seeb International Airport this day is
considered a major step in the history of
modern Oman’s renaissance. What we
have seen, felt and heard pertaining to
and about this Airport fills us with pride
and makes us proud of our country and
the people of our country.
Hence we would like to place on record

our thanks to those concerned with the
Airport’s management with its employees
and those who have constructed it. We
call upon Almighty Allah to guide us all
in order to serve this valued and beloved
country.”
27th Dhul Qa’aidah 1393 AH

Coincided with Sunday, 23rd December 1973
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said
Published for:
Oman Airports Management Company S.A.O.C.
P.O. Box 1707 • P.C. 111 • CPO
Sultanate of Oman
Editorial Team:
Content provided by OAMC
Wihaad Soud Al-Harthy, Marketing Manager Aeronautical
Tariq Abdulaziz Al-Farsi, Head of Airfield and Terminal Operations
Walaa Mubarak Al Zadjali, Marketing Officer
Acknowledgements:
Hamid Mohammed Al-Qasmi - Images & Information
adpi & COWI - Larsen Joint Venture - Artist impressions of
future airports and specifications
John James - Picture Page No. 22
A pilot stationed in Muscat for two years, 1959 - 1961
Brett Langevad - Picture Page No. 23
A British national, served as a pilot for Gulf Aviation in the early 1970s
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) - Underground to Overseas by
Sir Terence Clark - Azaiba Airfield Information - Page No. 26
Michael Stokes - Azaiba Airfield Information - Page No. 26
Joannou & Paraskevaides (Overseas) Ltd. - Picture Page No. 38
Charles Butt Collection, Middle East Centre Archive,
St. Antony’s College, Oxford - Picture Page No. 20, 38, 49, 50
John Fitzpatrick - Picture Page No. 60
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CONTENTS Introduction.......................................... 13
PAST.......................................................................17
Bait Al-Falaj Airport...................................................20
Azaiba Airfield.........................................................26
PRESENT............................................................. 31
Inauguration of Seeb International Airport....................34
Seeb International Airport through the 1970s...............42
Air Traffic Statistics....................................................89
Salalah Airport ........................................................97
Air Traffic Statistics..................................................108
Other Airports in Oman...........................................112
FUTURE............................................................. 117
Muscat International Airport.................................... 120
Salalah Airport...................................................... 152
Regional Airports................................................... 163
AIRPORT ORGANISATIONS............. 175

Oman Airports Management Company.................... 178
Civil Aviation Affairs............................................... 180
Royal Oman Police................................................. 182
Oman Air............................................................. 184
Conclusion............................................... 186
I ntro d u ction
Even an impossible ambition can be achieved when determination
and willpower come together. These are the core values that
ensure the people of a country, a promising future.
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, in his wisdom, has led this
country into an era which is unmistakably distinguishable from
the past while keeping the core values intact. It is with this vision
that the people of the Sultanate can look forward to a prosperous
and self-reliant Oman.
Oman Airports, being the main gateway to the rest of the world,
plays a major role in the growth of the Sultanate. The development
which has taken place specifically in this sector over four decades
is reflected in this book as it takes the reader through the journey
of a humble past, into a present stable environment leading to a
promising future.
13
17
PAST
Aerial view of Bait Al-Falaj Airport
The very first airport in Oman was not much more than a narrow,
dirt track landing strip with limited equipment and inadequate
amenities. Bait Al-Falaj Airport in the town of Ruwi dated
back to 1929 and mainly comprised of a communication centre,
a customs office, a maintenance shed and asphalt parking for
aircraft. The airport was primarily used for military purposes;
however, Petroleum Development Oman had also been utilizing
its facilities and runway to fly between Muscat and its oil
exploration fields in Fahud and other locations.
19
PAST
Bait Al-Falaj Airport

Bait Al-Falaj Airport saw a brief stint with civilian
flights as part of the beginning of Oman’s new open
policy to the outside world. In the 1960s Gulf Air
began flying its DC3 aircraft to the airport and shortly
thereafter, in the early 1970s, both Pakistan Airlines
and British Airways were operating semi-regular
passenger flights to and from this small airport. This
traffic was minimal and mainly consisted of small
aircraft carrying a few passengers from neighbouring Bait Al-Falaj Airport, fitted with limited equipment and facilities to
serve as a civilian airport. It had a communication centre, a customs
countries. office, asphalt parking for aircraft and a maintenance shed
Bait Al-Falaj Airport with Gulf Aviation BAC 1-11 and F-27
20
PAST
“Bait Al-Falaj, A temporary landing

strip was laid out just south of the
army camp in the 1950s by Gulf
Aviation (later Gulf Air) with some
financial contribution from the
Muscat government and Petroleum
Development Oman. The airfield
The burasti shelter of woven palm-fronds is one of the most
traditional of Omani dwellings, here providing a contrast with the was heavily used during the 1950s,
impending modernity implied by a nearby aircraft
and then became the principal
airfield for the newly created Oman’s
Air Force from 1959. It also served
as the country’s only civil airfield
until the early 1970s when Al-Seeb
International Airport was opened.”
Excerpt from “Historical Muscat” by – J.E. Peterson
Bait Al-Falaj Airport
“Beavers” parked at Bait Al-Falaj Airport in the mid 60’s
21
PAST
Twin Pioneer aircraft parked at Bait Al-Falaj Airport [Picture courtesy: John James]
John James: A pilot stationed in Muscat in 1959-1961,

recounts his experience, “A pilot on 152 Squadron, based
at RAF Muharraq for two years in 1959-1961. We were
equipped with 4 Twin Pioneers and 4 Pembrokes. The Twin
Pioneers were normally detached to Sharjah and often visited
Bait Al-Falaj in support of the Sultan’s Armed Forces. We
flew all the building materials up the Jebel Akhdar from Firq
to build the fort at Saiq. We also operated three Pembroke
flights a week to Muscat carrying fresh food, passengers
and mail. The routing was Bahrain, Sharjah, Firq or Ibri,
Muscat, Sharjah, Bahrain, which was a very long day in the
summer heat”.
The rear view of Bait Al-Falaj Airport
A rear view panorama of Bait Al-Falaj Airport in 1971, with Ruwi valley in the background
22
PAST
“Between Ruwi and Muttrah there is not a lot of space, but squeezed into it is
Bait Al-Falaj, around whose fort is clustered the Headquarters of the Sultan’s
Armed Forces (SAF), and in whose very limited plain, called the Saih al
Harmel, is the official civil and military airport of the country. Most visitors
to Muscat arrive there nervously watching hills approaching ever closer to the
wing tips of their aeroplane as it slews in through some not very obvious gap.
Nothing larger than the planes which land there now will be able to in the
future, and one day there will be a Muscat International Airport out, perhaps,
at Azaiba which already is used by Petroleum Development Oman and by any
other plane that may have strayed by inadvertence or force of circumstance to
the area.”
Excerpt from “Oman Before 1970 – The End Of An Era” by – Ian Skeet
The narrow runway of Bait Al-Falaj Airport [Picture courtesy: Brett Langevad]
23
PAST
During the seventies the need for a new airport to hills rendering it very difficult and even dangerous
replace Bait Al-Falaj Airport quickly became obvious. for pilots. Landing required a sharp approach into a
Aside from its insufficient ability to serve civilian narrow opening and an acute turn halfway down the
passengers and infrastructure, Bait Al-Falaj Airport short runway. Indeed the airport was fraught with
was situated between towering mountains and steep frequent failed landings and crashes.
View of Bait Al-Falaj Airport surrounded by steep hills
24
PAST
Arrival of His Majesty

Sultan Qaboos bin Said
to Muscat, Bait Al-Falaj
Airport, to take over
the reign of Government.
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said arriving at Bait Al-Falaj Airport
People of Oman awaiting the arrival of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said
25
PAST
Roads linked Al Azaiba and the drilling locations in

Azaiba Airfield the interior via the Samail Gap.
Azaiba air strip was used not only by Gulf Aviation
Though Bait Al-Falaj was the main airfield during 1970, but Trans Mediterranean Airline (TMA) also used
there were a few other airfields also functional during this facility as a complete cargo outfit. They would
this time. All these airfields were predominantly used fly in fresh foodstuff from Lebanon and Jordan to
for military purposes, but some of them were also Oman directly through the Azaiba airfield. Azaiba
shared for oil exploration and civil aircraft movements. airfield was preferred for the ease of flying in and out
During 1956, the conditions were so treacherous for compared to Bait Al-Falaj. However, it was not really
petroleum development, Petroleum Development adequate for further expansion as Azaiba was outside
Oman (PDO) was looking for alternative routes for the capital area. Once the goods were off loaded
oil rigs, hence towards the end of 1956, PDO began it had to be transported to the capital area and to
negotiations with the Government for a beach-head Ras Al Hamra, PDO headquarters.
at Saih Al Maleh, which was declared a port on 1st
In 1960, when Shell officially took over the management
January 1958, and for a depot and airstrip west of
of PDO, the Azaiba camp was closed down and handed
Al Azaiba having ruled out other possible sites at
over to the army.
Bander Al Jissah and Ras Al Hadd. It was finally
decided on January 1957 to transfer the depot to Source - PDO (Underground to Overseas by – Sir Terence Clark)
Al Azaiba, where an airstrip was soon constructed. Source - Michael Stokes
Azaiba Camp in 1970 [Picture courtesy: Erik Van Scherpenzeel]
26
PAST
Aerial view of Azaiba area, below left, Azaiba airstrip [Picture courtesy: Erik Van Scherpenzeel]
“Al-Udhaybah, (often spelled Azaiba),

originally a small tribal village with
wells and date palms was chosen in
the early 1950s as the operational
headquarters for the oil company,
Petroleum Development Oman,
probably because it was away from
the centres of population and was
conveniently located for a landing
beach and an airstrip. The oil
company vacated the camp at the
end of 1960.”
Azaiba airstrip Excerpt from “Historical Muscat” by – J.E. Peterson
27
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PRESENT
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said records his appreciation for the employees who contributed towards the opening of
Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport)
In 1974, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said spoke of the newly
opened Seeb International Airport saying, “A glance at what
was the old Bait Al-Falaj Airport and a glance at this
airport we inaugurate today, is quite sufficient to tell the
story of two consecutive eras; the difference is enormous
but the time lapsed between them is short.”
Indeed, the metamorphosis of Oman’s airports in the early
seventies from the tiny barren Bait Al-Falaj Airport to an
international airfield has everything to do with the Sultan
and his Renaissance who, upon his advent to rule, sought to
revolutionize all aspects of the Sultanate’s infrastructure and
services.
33
PRESENT
Inauguration of Seeb International Airport
Seeb International Airport
With the advent of the Renaissance and His Majesty Oman shortly after the oil boom. The government
Sultan Qaboos’ forward thinking socio-economic anticipated a growth in passenger and cargo
policy, instructions to build a new airport in Seeb transport, and consequently appointed Netherlands
were released by Royal Decree as part of a plan to Airport Consultancy Company (NACO) in 1970 to
expand Oman’s physical infrastructure. The new design and supervise the construction. Joannou &
airport was also part of a goal to establish links Paraskevaides (Overseas) Ltd. were awarded the
with the rest of the world and serve the needs of tender to construct the runway, taxiways and aircraft
foreign investors and companies that began work in stands.
34
PRESENT
The airport was completed three years later and 23rd September and 11th December 1973 before he
opened for operation on 1st January 1973. On 17th officially inaugurated it on the 23rd December that
October operations moved from the temporary year. HM’s personal aircraft was the first aircraft
facilities to the main terminal, leaving the area to be with an Omani registration to land at the Seeb
used for cargo and later for the current VIP Terminal. International Airport. Thus with the inauguration
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos conducted official of Seeb International Airport, civil aviation in Oman
inspections of Seeb International Airport himself on entered an exciting new era.
Official inauguration of Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport) by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on 23rd December 1973
35
PRESENT
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said at the inauguration of Seeb International Airport
(currently Muscat International Airport)
The speech of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said the story of two consecutive eras; the difference is enormous
on the occasion of inauguration of Seeb International but the time lapsed between them is short.
Airport (currently Muscat International Airport): Dear brothers, as Oman raises its flag over this airport,
In The Name of Allah The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful declares its sovereignty, embracing the sky and shadowing
It gives me great pleasure to be among you in this historical its beloved people with peace and safety, is looking forward
moment of this special day in the history of our precious to more great achievements that can reflect the civilized
country. This is a beloved occasion to our hearts as we status and positive effectiveness in the Arabian region.
are awaiting its opening, while we are laying down the We thank all the employees who contributed to the
milestone of the constructive journey. completion of this vital and important facility, we commend
The significance of this occasion is great, as we are officially all employees working in this airport to become the sincere
inaugurating today our largest gateway through which we interface which reflects the reality of this country by the good
will emerge towards the world in a major appearance with treatment and the generosity of ethics, giving continuous
all the optimism and hope that our country will step into the care and full maintenance to this place, this is considered as
civilization of the era in which we live. the obligation and that is honesty.
On this day we are inaugurating Seeb International Airport Allah with your blessings to our work, and with your
to link our country with the world to become a bridge, guidance and name we inaugurate Seeb International
confirms the development process which characterized this Airport, we ask Allah to help us in working for the best
phase of the history of our country. interest of our country and our nation.
A glance at what was the old Bait Al-Falaj and a glance at May Allah guide us all
this airport we inaugurate today, is quite sufficient to tell Peace, mercy and blessings of Allah
36
PRESENT
Official inauguration of Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport)
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s personal aircraft was the first aircraft A postage stamp was released on the commemoration of the opening of
with an Omani Registration to land at Seeb International Airport Seeb International Airport
37
PRESENT
Shortly after its opening, the airport in Seeb

was able to receive both the fastest and
largest aircraft in the world at that time.
The Sultanate of Oman officially joined the
International Civil Aviation Organisation
(ICAO) and the Civil Aviation Council
of Arab States (CACAS) in February and
October 1973 respectively, following which
Oman actively participated in several Arabic
and international conferences and meetings
during 1974 and 1975. The Sultanate of Oman
became a member of the World Meteorological
Organization (WMO) on 5th February, 1975. A view of Seeb International Airport [Picture courtesy: J&P]
Temporary Seeb International Airport building
38
PRESENT
As proof of the airport’s potential to support the fastest aircraft, Concorde landed on 31st August 1974,
in a visit to the Sultanate during its experimental flight programme. Concorde is seen here alongside HM’s personal aircraft
In demonstration of the airport’s

ability to accommodate the world’s
fastest and largest commercial
aircraft, Concorde landed at Seeb
International Airport in 1974 as did
the American Lockheed Tristar (the
largest aircraft after the Jumbo). In
the same year, 747 Jumbo Jets began
flying in and out of the airport.
Oman’s air transport system had
certainly come a long way in a
Omani dignitaries visiting Concorde at Seeb International Airport relatively short time.
Lockheed Tristar of America – one of the largest aircraft at that time
39
PRESENT
Located 32km west of the city, the airport was equipped

with state-of-the-art aviation and communication
instruments which would enable the safest landings
and take-off, including the Ultra High Frequency
communication apparatus connecting the Air Traffic
Control Tower with airports in neighbouring countries.
The runway length was 3,050m of paved ground
plus another 750m unpaved ground; considerably
longer than that of the old airport. The fire staff from
Bait Al-Falaj Airport were transferred to the new airport
and a new fire station was built and equipped with the
latest crash tenders from the United Kingdom. Airport
standards were at Category 9 in accordance with
international standards for fire and rescue protection
at that time.
One of the first commercial aircraft to land was the
Gulf Air BAC 1-11 on 10th September 1972. By the end
of 1974, approximately 87,200 passengers had passed
through the airport.
The daily launching of a balloon to measure wind speed and direction
Well wishers balcony at Seeb International Airport The fire station at Seeb International Airport in 1970s
40
PRESENT
Gulf Air VC-10 aircraft being refuelled at Seeb International Airport
“Al-Seeb, the Sultan of Oman’s Air Force operated an airstrip in the area of
Al-Seeb until the early 1970s. In 1947, a survey party from Trans World Airways
(TWA) assessed the possibility of using Al-Seeb as a commercial airfield but
reported that it would be too expensive to build. But the idea of an airport at
Al-Seeb eventually bore fruit, as a new airport was built near Al-Seeb village
to replace the cramped airfield at Bait Al-Falaj. Commercial flights began in
September 1972.”
Excerpt from “Historical Muscat” by – J.E. Peterson
A view of F-27 and VC-10 aircraft on the parking apron at Seeb International Airport
41
PRESENT
Seeb International Airport through the 1970s
Aerial view of Seeb International Airport [Picture courtesy: Erik Van Scherpenzeel]
In the 1970s, the beginning of Seeb International its cargo building was closer to the central airport
Airport was quite humble and was gradually building (today this location is the VIP Terminal).
developed throughout the following decades. Seeb The airport had only two departure gates which were
International Airport was initially one terminal split closed with aluminium chains and had only two
by a wall into two halls (arrivals and departures) and immigration counters.
42
PRESENT
Both the prayer room and VIP Terminal were located

inside the airport as opposed to today, where separate
areas are dedicated to a mosque and VIP building.
Most flights landed in the morning as the runway
was not equipped with emergency night lighting and
weather forecasts were obtained from neighbouring
countries. The processes of checking in and the issuing
of boarding passes were performed manually. Forklifts
were originally used to load and unload cargo with
delicate cargo being handled manually. Most of the
commercial flights landing in Oman were connecting
flights and only a few were direct. The airport would
not, however, stay this quiescent for long. BBME Bank counter at Seeb International Airport
Immigration counter at Seeb International Airport Money Exchange counter at Seeb International Airport
Passengers at passport control
43
PRESENT
Jumbo B-747 and Gulf Air VC-10 on the parking apron
From 1st July 1974, Middle

East Airlines (MEA) started
operating Boeing 747 Jumbo
Jets scheduled flights into
Seeb International Airport.
Arriving passengers waiting for their luggage
Front view of Arrivals Terminal
44
PRESENT
For Seeb International Airport, the seventies were

a period of escalating movement to and from the
airport. Between the years of 1974 and 1980, airport
activities had increased as follows:
Type of Activity 1974 1980 Variance
Passenger
129,072 692,745 437%
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
6,512 25,592 293%
Movements
Cargo & Mail

2,897 11,825 308%
(Tons)
Moreover, by the end of 1973, the year of its

inauguration, seven companies were operating from
Seeb International Airport. These airlines were Gulf
Air, Royal Jordanian, Kuwait Airways, Lebanese
Middle East Airlines, British Airways and Pakistan
Airlines as well as Trans Mediterranean Air Cargo.
In order to keep pace with the exponential increase
in activity through Seeb International Airport, the
airport underwent a plethora of changes.
Customs officials at Seeb International Airport
Front view of Departures Terminal
45
PRESENT
Seeb International Airport’s renovations and Improvements to the airport infrastructure:

improvements throughout the seventies were as ÈÈ Seeb International Airport’s runway was expanded
follows: to 3,584m from the previous length of 3,050m
Improvements to essential airport equipment: ÈÈ A new parking apron was constructed for small
aircraft used for domestic flights around the
ÈÈ Installation of an instrument landing system to Sultanate
allow pilots to use lower approach minimums
ÈÈ The civil aircraft parking apron was expanded to
during poor weather conditions and handle traffic accommodate up to nine modern and wide bodied
efficiently at peak hours aircrafts
ÈÈ Establishment of radio teletype link between ÈÈ A new taxiway was built to reduce taxiing time to
Seeb International Airport and Masirah Island to and from the terminal apron and runway
exchange meteorological information In addition to these renovations, major system changes
ÈÈ Installation of a modernized VHF communications to the airport operation were made including the
network linking the control tower with the airport establishment of the National Meteorological Service by
and fire section vehicles the Directorate General of Civil Aviation with a weather
satellite earth receiving station. A Planning Section
ÈÈ The installation of floodlights and edge lighting on within the same Directorate General was instituted in
all taxiways and aprons order to prepare studies on how best to achieve the
Civil Aviation’s objectives. In the interests of improving
ÈÈ Fire station was re-equipped with the most
airport safety, a flight briefing service was established to
sophisticated chemical trucks and rapid
provide essential aeronautical information to pilots and
intervention vehicles
a national search and rescue service was set up to ensure
ÈÈ Efficient container loaders were acquired to the availability of immediate assistance to aircraft.
facilitate loading and unloading with a capability Catering services began to supply aircraft with meals
of loading 20-30 tons per hour and refreshments, Arabic and foreign publications were
made available to passengers.
Meteorological Section
46
PRESENT
Fire station was re-equipped with latest fire trucks
Transfer waiting lounge for passengers Cafeteria at Seeb International Airport
47
PRESENT
In 1975, the Omani Civil Aviation Law No. 50/75 by-laws organizing various operations such as an
was ratified by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said emergency planning manual, in accordance with
which would support and regulate the civil aviation ICAO requirements. Oman was also selected by Gulf
sector’s activities. The law was decreed in November Air to be the airline’s country of registration for its
aircraft and crew. In the light of these changes and
and put the Sultanate ahead of all other Gulf countries
updates it became necessary for the Directorate to
in accordance with international requirements. It
create regulatory standards; thus the rules of Oman
was followed by the formulation of manuals and Civil Aviation were formulated.
National air carrier, Gulf Air VC-10 at Seeb International Airport
Oman was selected by

Gulf Air to be the country
of registration for its
aircraft and crew.
Duty Free Shop
48
PRESENT
Airside view of Seeb International Airport
Air Traffic Control Tower at Seeb International Airport
49
PRESENT
Seeb International Airport
50
PRESENT
Landside view of Seeb International Airport
It was during the 1980s that the airport fully benefited Type of activity 1980 1990 Variance
from all the developments that took place during the
Passenger
1970s. While this is certainly true, and the numbers 692,745 1,444,035 108%
Numbers
confirm this, the eighties were not devoid of intense
Civil Aircraft
development. 25,592 27,148 6%
Movements
The following table exhibits the variance in airport Cargo & Mail
activity between years 1980 and 1990: 11,825 27,167 130%
(Tons)
51
PRESENT
Architect’s Drawing of Seeb International Airport 1980
52
PRESENT
53
PRESENT
In the eighties, Seeb International Airport witnessed

major expansions in the arrival and departure
terminals and a new transfer hall that included the
first duty free shop. A whole new arrivals hall was
built and connected to the old terminal which was
opened to passengers in February 1985. The transfer
and departures hall also witnessed considerable
expansion doubling the number of check-in areas. A
new domestic arrivals terminal and public concourse
were built as was a full length roadside canopy. The
terminal car parking was also extended during this
time. In 1980, the Sultanate’s Aviation Information
Centre and Control Tower were inaugurated giving the
The new aircraft catering facility
Sultanate direct control over its skies. The Information
Centre helped improve the safety standards.
International communication centres were also
established to connect the centre with international
and neighbouring information centres including those
in India, UAE, Bahrain and Iran.
Updates to airport equipment were completed
including a new Flight Information Display System. A
Category I Approach Lighting System (ALS) was also
installed to assist pilots in landing during periods of
reduced visibility. During this period the parking stand
had only 12 wide and narrow bodied aircraft stands. In
December 1980, a new Aircraft Catering Facility with
exemplary catering opened to service all airlines. In 1981,
the Airport Restaurant was refurbished and became the
The Beluga aircraft parked at Seeb International Airport
most luxurious airport restaurant of the time.
Refurbished restaurant at Seeb International Airport
54
PRESENT
The welcome hall at Arrivals
In just 10 years (1973-1983), the

airport had taken great strides
towards upgrading its ground and air
services, acquiring the most up-to-
date and sophisticated navigational
equipment and infrastructure.
Part of the almost doubled in size Departures check-in area
Customs counters in the new hall
55
PRESENT
The new Arrivals Baggage Reclaim Hall
Part of the transfer lounge Immigration Control Counters
56
PRESENT
Landside view of Seeb International Airport
The 1990s were, much like the 70’s and 80’s before it,
another period of advancement as is the story of Oman’s
Passenger
airport history, a mark of its continuing evolution. 1,444,035 2,721,393 88%
Numbers
The passenger numbers increased throughout Oman
Civil Aircraft
(which had reached approximately 1.5 million by 1990 27,148 36,082 33%
Movements
and would shortly after double) was of course both a
Cargo & Mail
cause and consequence of further expansion. 27,167 69,696 157%
(Tons)
57
PRESENT
Cargo Terminal
The current cargo terminal was completed in 1991

with a capacity to handle 40,000 tons of cargo with
modern facilities on a par with other international
airports. In 1995, a new VIP building was completed;
with four reception lounges in addition to a rest suite
and a prayer room. Oman’s Duty Free Co. LLC was
also established during this period.
VIP Building
Cargo Yard
58
PRESENT
Among the upgrades to the airport’s equipment was a

radar system from Raytheon, an American company,
installed in 1995 for both Seeb International Airport
and Salalah Airport. The system was considered the
most advanced air traffic control system in the world,
containing many features that ensure the safety of aircraft
and facilitating the work of controllers. Additional
Flight Information Displays System (FIDS) monitors
were installed. A high resolution meteorological satellite
station was installed increasing forecasting performance
capabilities and efficiency in monitoring cyclones. In
1995, six more aircraft stands were added to the existing
12 general aviation aircraft stands, bringing the total
New Flight Information Display System monitors were installed
number of aircraft stands to 18.
An entirely new Air Traffic Control

Automation System was set up
for both Seeb International and
Salalah Airports which connected
them through a fixed aeronautical
telecommunications network.
Raytheon radar system replaced Plessey radar system New Air Traffic Control automation system
59
PRESENT
In 1993, Oman Air began its commercial airline

operations, with a domestic flight to Salalah in
March and then a flight to Dubai in July. In that year,
Oman Air became the 2nd national carrier of Oman
alongside Gulf Air.
At the end of the 90’s, Seeb International Airport
achieved third position in the world after Dusseldorf
and Miami Airports for continuous improvement,
upgrading of services and staff training as per an
International Air Transport Association (IATA) poll
giving a clear appreciation of its efforts to keep on a
par with safety and efficiency standards. The results
of this poll were announced and published in the
International Aviation magazine. Oman Air A320 aircraft at Seeb International Airport
Aerial view of Seeb International Airport [Picture courtesy: John Fitzpatrick]
60
PRESENT
Landside view of Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport)
Between 2000 and 2010 the passenger numbers Apart from the civil operations at Muscat International
through Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat Airport, the airside infrastructure is also used by
International Airport) has increased by nearly 111%, the Royal Flight, Royal Air Force of Oman and the
and the airport has been maintained at international Directorate General of Police Aviation. Each of these
standards and is fully functional to serve the country’s have units located alongside the terminal, are self-
needs. Consequently, the airport has been enlarged contained with their own road access, terminal and
and has witnessed enhancements to its operations and aircraft apron but share the runway, taxiway, emergency
equipments. services and air traffic control.
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Muscat International Airport

The accelerated increase in activity at Muscat
International Airport over a relatively short period of
time has been striking with the number of passengers
rising to 5.7 million in 2010 with the number of
operating scheduled airlines to Muscat International
Airport rising to 27. Thus advancing the airport’s
modernity and capability was and still is an absolute
priority.
One of the most obvious changes to the airport was
its name. In order to identify it globally with the name
of the capital city, the name Seeb International Airport
was changed to Muscat International Airport on 1st
February 2008 after obtaining the necessary approvals
from the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Muscat International Airport Aerial view of Muscat International Airport
62
PRESENT
63
PRESENT
As in the decades before 2000, Muscat International

Airport’s numbers have consistently risen since 2000.
In 2000, over 2.7 million passengers passed through
Muscat International Airport, a figure which had
significantly increased by 2010. The airport also
witnessed an increase in civil aircraft movements,
freight and mail as the following table shows:

Passenger
2,721,393 5,751,516 111%
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
36,082 67,160 86%
Movements
Cargo & Mail
69,696 96,390 38%
(Tons) Aircraft parked at Muscat International Airport apron
Aircraft parked at Muscat International Airport apron
64
PRESENT
Direct Destinations Connected to Muscat International Airport
Destinations served from Muscat International Airport
Muscat International Airport has come a long way from hosting only 3 airlines in the early 1970s. Currently, 27
scheduled airlines operate 545 scheduled flights a week with 56 destinations in 27 countries served directly from
Muscat International Airport as follows:
Destinations Number Served from Muscat International Airport*

Oman-Domestic 2
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) 12
Middle East 4
Africa 3
Europe 8
Far East 2
Indian Sub Continent 25
Total 56
*Based on the schedule effective as of December 2010
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PRESENT
Development in the 21st Century
In order to meet the demand of increasing air travel

and to ensure passenger comfort and convenience
as well as overall efficiency of airport services, a
number of improvement projects were initiated and
completed between 2000 and 2010. These projects
may be categorized into structural, operational and
commercial developments.
Ground handling services at Muscat International Airport Exterior view of the new pier opened in April 2009
66
PRESENT
67
PRESENT
Structural Developments
Current Airport Expansion

Muscat International Airport has in recent years
experienced a period of healthy growth in passenger
numbers, this positive and considerable growth is
expected to continue for the foreseeable future. It is
being driven by a number of factors including fleet
and route expansion by the national carrier Oman Air,
and increases in capacity and frequency by the existing
carriers. This in turn is being fuelled by the growth and
development of the tourism industry within the country
as well as strong commercial and economic activity.
In response to these significant increases in passenger
numbers and to allow the airport to maintain
appropriate levels of service to its customers, a number
of improvement projects have been initiated to deliver
additional capacity and meet the expected future
increase in passenger traffic until the new terminal
building is operational.
The expansion projects are designed to improve
the existing passenger terminal building, focusing
primarily on key passenger processing areas to relieve
congestion at peak times and to ensure that passengers
using the airport can still enjoy a comfortable and
convenient experience as they arrive, depart or transfer
through the airport.
Muscat International Airport check-in counters With the new 20 additional check-in counters,
Muscat International Airport has a total of 58 check-in counters
68
PRESENT
69
PRESENT
New Departures Building

A pier adjacent to the departures terminal building was
built and opened in April 2009, the new pier provides
an additional 10,000 sqm of passenger circulation and
retail space across two levels. The pier features a large
waiting and circulation area for departing passengers
at the first floor level with approximately 1,800 seats,
new bathrooms, prayer rooms, smoking room and
the provision of a wider choice of retail, food and
beverage outlets combined with an excellent view of
the apron. The first floor interior has a combination of
marble and carpeted floors with Omani themed decor
and feature lighting. New boarding gates at the pier
New pier connects to the existing Muscat International Airport Departures Hall
70
PRESENT
View of the apron from the new Departures extension
The ground floor features eight bus boarding gates

each with an approximate capacity of 160 seats with a
provision to combine two gates for the new generation
of very large aircraft. The ground floor features a
combination of marble and vinyl floor coverings. In
total the new pier can accommodate 3,000 passengers
at one time.
A fully automated transfer baggage screening and
processing facility is also accommodated within the
pier. This facility offers significantly improved baggage
sorting and screening facilities, improving both baggage
connecting times and providing substantially increased
levels of security.
Escalator leading to the ground floor boarding gates Coffee shop at the pier
71
PRESENT
Other Expansions The landside Departures hall and hold baggage

screening facility and queuing area were also extended
In late 2008, the international baggage reclaim hall at
in this case by an extra 700sqm of floor space, in order
Arrivals was enlarged by 30% to provide increased
to increase queuing and passenger circulation space.
passenger circulation space at baggage collection In addition, the check-in hall was also expanded by
points. Two of the existing baggage reclaim belts an extra 1,200sqm to provide an additional 20 check-
were replaced with new belts in order to improve the in desks. Muscat International Airport now has a total
baggage belts efficiency, whilst the third was extended of 58 check-in counters and associated queuing and
by 100% to increase baggage off-loading and passenger circulation space; increasing the check-in hall capacity
reclaim capacity. by 53%.
Aircraft parking apron at Muscat International Airport
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PRESENT
Baggage Reclaim Hall
In 2009, new office space was constructed for airlines

to ensure that there are adequate facilities for
their businesses to grow and for new airlines to be
accommodated.
The car parks were expanded in 2010 increasing the
capacity of the total car parks at the terminal building
at Muscat International Airport to 1,542 spaces.
Passengers at the new check-in counter
Premium Car Park Transfer Area
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PRESENT
Operational Developments including the Boeing 777-300ER and A340-600. This

expansion of the airport’s capabilities has expanded
Airfield Operations the mandate of airfield operations as well.
Outside the terminal building, additional aircraft What was initially an airfield manual of 30 pages has
parking stands were constructed in 2007, creating evolved into an aerodrome manual with integrated
an additional 6 stands for large aircraft or 8 for safety manual systems (ISMS), which covers the whole
medium sized aircraft. Muscat International Airport range of airport safety and operations. This includes
currently has a total of 32 stands. Also, taxiway the management of wildlife, a mobile and fixed bird-
width widening work was carried out in order deterrent system to keep airfields and surrounding
to accommodate the largest wheel based aircraft apron areas free of birds.
Currently the number of aircraft stands at Muscat International Airport totals 32
74
PRESENT
Terminal Operations International Airport to provide any airport related

Terminal operations, now, has a much wider role than information, one in the departures hall and the other
it ever had in terms of interfacing ground handling, in the duty free area. FIDS was completely manually
passenger control, managing flight information operated before the airport was privatized. However,
display systems (FIDS) and trolley handling among since then, OAMC has completely automated FIDS,
many other tasks. including the announcement of flight information and
Passenger control and porter services were initiated by the accessibility of flight information by phone, internet
Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) at the and text message. Also, the number and quality of
check-in areas to facilitate the check-in process. There trolleys has increased, with a new lightweight model
are currently two information desks at the Muscat being introduced in larger quantities.
Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS)
75
PRESENT
Fire Fighting & Rescue The watch room is sound proof and is equipped with
Muscat International Airport is a category 9 airport, lighting with varying intensity to aid External Night
one of the highest in accordance with the ICAO Vision. Hotlines are provided to air traffic control,
international standards for fire fighting and rescue civil defence, substation and hospitals. The watch
protection. Its fire services are divided into 3 units: room also monitors the tower radio frequency.
Operational, Administrative and Coordination. To meet the current international requirements with
The watch room overlooks the entire airfield, it is regard to fire fighting and rescue protection, Muscat
the central point for receiving emergency calls and International Airport has a fleet of the latest fire
mobilization of resources for emergency operation. fighting vehicles.
Muscat International Airport fire fighting & rescue team
State-of-the-art fire fighting vehicles
76
PRESENT
Aviation Fuel Suppliers

Muscat International Airport is serviced by three major aviation fuel suppliers namely Shell Oman Marketing
Company, Oman Oil Marketing Company in partnership with Air BP and Al Maha Petroleum Products Marketing
Company in partnership with Chevron.
Three major aviation fuel suppliers at Muscat International Airport
Fuelling of Oman Air Boeing 737-800 at Aviation fuel suppliers offices at

Muscat International Airport Muscat International Airport
77
PRESENT
Commercial Developments
Muscat International Airport’s commercial facilities

have expanded to include a wide variety of retail
products, varied restaurants, food & beverage outlets
and numerous services for passenger needs.
Omani perfume outlet in Muscat International Airport Retail outlets at the passenger Departures Hall
78
PRESENT
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PRESENT
Retail
After opening at Muscat International Airport in 2003, Muscat International Airport also has a pharmacy,
Muscat Duty Free LLC now occupies a total area of a perfume/gift outlet and an outlet for luxurious
1,700sqm. The largest of its outlets is on the upper floor accessories for women; all of which are located on the
in the departures lounge carrying 20,000 products. airport’s first floor.
Muscat Duty Free LLC now occupies a total area of 1,700 sqm at Muscat International Airport
Passenger shopping at Muscat Duty Free LLC Arrivals Duty Free Shop
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PRESENT
Food & Beverage

There are two food courts, one located at the public arrivals area and the other at the departures area. The food
courts have a selection of international cuisines and coffee shops located in various areas around the airport.
Coffee shop located at Departures landside
Coffee shop in the new Departures building
81
PRESENT
Airport Lounges
Located on the ground floor after the departures
Emigration and security check points, is Oman Air’s
premium class lounge which boasts convenient
facilities such as shower rooms, baby changing room, a
business centre and entertainment portals. The lounge
provides its customers with an array of snacks, a salad
bar, Arabian coffee, dates and a delightful variety of
sweets and desserts, hot and cold food and beverages.
Oman Air inaugurated brand new first and business
class lounges on the first floor of the terminal, near duty
free shopping. Both lounges are modern and elegant Oman Air first class lounge
in design, open 24 hours and offers dedicated dining
facilities, quiet rooms, men’s and women’s prayer
rooms, wash and shower rooms, business centre, and
a spa with massage rooms, offering complimentary 15
minute treatments. For those travelling with children,
there is a dedicated playroom with toys. The lounge
offers meals any time of the day or night, from light
bites to hearty meals. First class guests can enjoy an
a la carte menu, each dish of which is individually
prepared to the guest’s requirements by their personal
chef. Exclusive for Oman Air’s first class passengers
are dedicated lifts and stair cases to the limousine
pick-up point where chauffeurs will take passengers
to their aircraft in complete comfort and luxury. Oman Air business class lounge
Oman Air Premium Class Lounge at the Departures Hall
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PRESENT
Plaza Premium Lounge at the Departures Hall
Muscat International Airport’s Plaza Premium Arrival passengers at Muscat International Airport
Lounge has two outlets; one in the departures and can relax and benefit from an unlimited use of the
one in arrivals. The departures lounge, in addition lounge facilities whilst their visa formalities are being
to premium class passengers, also admits pay-in processed offering fast track immigration services.
customers. The lounge includes seating for 120 people.
Value added services such as baggage collection,
There are 2 shower rooms, male and female restrooms,
assistance at customs and transportation to their final
a smoking room, children’s play area and a business
destination is offered, also special arrangements for
centre.
VIP services are arranged. Facilities at the lounge
The Arrivals Plaza Premium Lounge is available to includes a business centre, internet access points, a
all passengers regardless of airline or class of travel. shower room, TV, reading materials and a selection of
Meet, Greet and Assist services are available for a fee. food and beverages.
Plaza Premium Meet & Greet Services Lounge at the Arrivals Hall
83
PRESENT
Other Facilities
An internationally famous bookstore has
three locations in the airport, displaying
a wide range of books, magazines,
traditional Omani products, the famous
Omani frankincense and toys for
children. For passengers’ monetary
needs, seven money exchange branches
operate at the airport. There are two
smoking rooms at the departures area.
There is a separate play area for children
and a nursing room.
Seven money exchange branches operate at Muscat International Airport
Traditional Omani products at Duty Free
84
PRESENT
Muscat International Airport has nine different car

rental information counters located at the arrivals hall
and two hotel resorts have information counters ready
to assist hotel guests. Finally, major mobile telephone
service providers have desks in the arrivals hall, and
the airport recently introduced free WiFi hotspots for
Internet browsing.
Muscat International Airport has separate prayer

rooms for both male and female passengers in the
departures terminal. Also, there is a mosque within
the airport premises.
There are separate prayer rooms for both male & female passengers at Book store at the Departures Hall
the Departures Hall
Free WiFi hotspots for passenger convenience Luggage wrapping at the Departures Hall
85
PRESENT
Tourist Information Desk

There is a dedicated tourist information desk at the arrivals hall, near the baggage reclaim area, the counter is open
24 hours and has a range of brochures and leaflets available for the tourists about Muscat and other regions and
places of interest to visit.
Tourist information counter at the Arrivals Hall
Car Rentals counter at the Arrivals Hall Mobile service counter at the Arrivals Hall
86
PRESENT
Muscat International Airport Aerodrome Information

Airport Name : Muscat International Airport
City : Muscat
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Location Indicator Code : OOMS
International Air Transport Association (IATA) Location Indicator Code : MCT
Runway Length : 3,584 metres
Runway Width : 45 metres
Airside view of Muscat International Airport
87
PRESENT
Scheduled Passenger Airlines Operating into Muscat International Airport
As of December 2010
88
PRESENT
Air Traffic Statistics

Muscat International Airport-Passenger Numbers
850,000
Total
Year
Passengers
700,000
1974 129,072
692,745
550,000
576,729 1975 250,089
529,904
400,000
435,073
1976 333,053
250,000 333,053 1977 435,073

250,089
1978 529,904
100,000
129,072 1979 576,729
0
1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980
1980 692,745
1,750,000
1981 748,928
1,500,000 1982 884,202
1,444,035 1983 1,007,045
1,250,000 1,430,293 1,339,506
1,314,678 1,347,271 1,298,886 1984 1,186,945
1,000,000 1,186,945 1985 1,314,678
1,007,045 1986 1,430,293
750,000 884,202
1987 1,347,271
748,928
500,000 1988 1,298,886
1989 1,339,506
0
1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1990 1,444,035
3,200,000
1991 1,666,549
2,800,000 1992 1,710,246
1993 2,058,699
2,756,045 2,799,922 2,721,393
2,400,000
2,555,483 1994 2,095,549
2,347,948
2,000,000 1995 2,176,260
2,176,260
2,058,699 2,095,549 1996 2,347,948
1,600,000
1,666,549 1,710,246 1997 2,555,483
1,200,000 1998 2,756,045
1999 2,799,922
0
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2000 2,721,393
6,000,000 2001 2,697,032
5,000,000
5,751,516 2002 2,450,422
2003 2,886,487
4,777,058 4,556,502
4,000,000
4,219,700 4,002,121
2004 3,461,743
3,778,129
3,000,000
2005 3,778,129
3,461,743
2,886,487 2006 4,777,058
2,000,000 2,697,032 2,450,422
2007 4,219,700
1,000,000 2008 4,002,121
2009 4,556,502
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2010 5,751,516
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PRESENT

Muscat International Airport-Civil Aircraft Movements
30,000
Civil Aircraft
Year
28,371 Movements
25,000 27,582
25,592
1974 6,512
20,000
21,451
1975 14,264
15,000 1976 14,823
10,000 14,264
14,823 1977 21,451
1978 27,582
5,000
6,512 1979 28,371
0
1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980
1980 25,592
40,000
1981 28,278
35,000 1982 27,966
1983 26,854
30,000
32,219
1984 27,975
31,533
25,000
28,181 1985 32,219
28,278 27,966 26,854 27,975 26,893 26,061 27,148
1986 31,533
20,000
1987 28,181
15,000 1988 26,893
1989 26,061
0
1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1990 27,148
45,000
1991 28,539
40,000 1992 31,100
1993 33,900
38,956
35,000
36,883
36,247 35,548 36,082
1994 36,883
35,661 35,197
30,000 1995 36,247
33,900
31,100
1996 35,661
25,000
28,539 1997 35,197
20,000 1998 35,548
1999 38,956
0
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2000 36,082
70,000
2001 35,064
67,160 2002 33,509
60,000
2003 36,389
50,000 55,330 2004 40,297
46,319 2005 40,192
40,000 45,655 45,600
40,297 40,192 2006 46,319
36,389
30,000 35,064 33,509 2007 45,655
20,000
2008 45,600
2009 55,330
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2010 67,160
90
PRESENT

Muscat International Airport-Cargo & Mail Movements (in tons)
15,000
Cargo and Mail
Year
Movements
12,500
13,973
1974 2,897
12,211 12,270
10,000
11,765 11,825 1975 7,731
7,500 1976 12,211
7,731
5,000
1977 13,973
1978 12,270
2,500
2,897 1979 11,765
0
1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980
1980 11,825
30,000
1981 12,225
25,000
27,167 1982 15,088
24,616
1983 17,059
22,888 23,307
20,000
19,956 20,016
1984 19,220
19,220
15,000
1985 24,616
15,088 17,059
1986 22,888
10,000 12,225
1987 19,956
5,000
1988 20,016
1989 23,307
0 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1990 27,167
70,000
1991 32,771
69,696
60,000 1992 28,708
63,304
1993 34,707
50,000
53,948 1994 37,542
40,000 1995 39,501
44,457 46,301
39,501 1996 44,457
37,542
30,000
32,771 28,708
34,707 1997 46,301
20,000 1998 53,948
1999 63,304
0
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2000 69,696
100,000
2001 74,183
90,000
99,582 96,390 2002 48,957
2003 50,095
80,000
2004 68,315
70,000 76,038 77,308 2005 76,038
74,183 2006 99,582
60,000 68,315 64,419
2007 77,308
58,486
50,000 2008 58,486
50,095
48,957 2009 64,419
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2010 96,390
91
PRESENT
Salalah Airport 1970 - 1999
View of Salalah Airport in 1975
Salalah Civil Aviation was born at the beginning of aviation services including aircraft maintenance, cargo
the Renaissance in 1970, shortly after that the Faulkner handling and supply for airport facilities.
27 planes moved various goods into the city. In The airport was initially used as a military base and
accordance with His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s
was quite small, although it was on a par with most
goals to modernize Oman and in order to connect
modern international airports. It had no arrivals hall
Oman’s north to its south and transport people,
and its departures hall could accommodate only a
cargo and mail to and from the capital, Joannou &
few passengers. It had a fire and rescue building, a
Paraskevaides (Overseas) Ltd. was appointed in 1975
to build an airport in Salalah. The Omani government maintenance building and a cargo terminal. Its runway
then signed a contract with Pan Am Company, USA length was 2,286m (later extended to 3,342m in 1985). It
which would take over operation and technical had three parking aprons, a lighting system according
supervision of the new airport as well as train Omani to Category II and fire fighting equipment at Category
manpower to work there. Oman Aviation Services took 8 ICAO standards. It was linked to Seeb International
charge of managing and operating Salalah Airport’s Airport through VHF and HF radio frequencies.
97
PRESENT
Commercial flights began operating from the airport

in 1977 with 2-3 domestic flights per week. Due to
the increasing economic development in the region,
Salalah Airport underwent considerable expansion
over the following decades.
Salalah Airport witnessed renovations to its original
structure and operation in the eighties. Its building was
made into a two storey integrated terminal building;
on the ground level, a new departures, arrivals
and welcoming hall. On the first floor, a cafeteria, a
lobby and other facilities to serve passengers were
constructed. Other upgrades included Salalah
Air Traffic Control Tower at Salalah Airport
Airport’s cargo facilities and fire services and the
extension of its runway (to 3,342m), its parking apron
and part of its taxiway.
The following table exhibits the variance in airport
activity between years 1980 and 1990:
Passenger
45,628 85,234 87%
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
2,620 2,324 -11%
Movements
Cargo & Mail
506 562 11%
(Tons) Salalah Airport
Cargo flight began operating to Salalah in 1977. Seen here is an Antonov 124
98
PRESENT
The following table exhibits the variance in airport implemented and wind instruments near the runway
activity between years 1990 and 2000: were installed to aid greater touchdown accuracy. In
1981, Salalah Airport began operating its fire, Air Traffic
Type of Activity 1990 2000 Variance Control (ATC), meteorology, communications and
Passenger transportation services 24 hours a day.
85,234 182,823 115%
Numbers During the 1990s, radios were replaced at the fire station
Civil Aircraft and a new computer network system was installed
2,324 2,385 3%
Movements linking various systems throughout the airport. A new
Cargo & Mail radar building to complement the radar system from
562 1,394 148%
(Tons) Raytheon was built. Finally, during this period Salalah
Salalah Airport’s equipment was also upgraded during Airport’s Air Traffic Control team achieved a 100%
this period. A Runway Visual Range System was omanization rate.
Airside view of Salalah Airport
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PRESENT
Salalah Airport 2000 - 2010

Considered the second gateway to Oman after Muscat
International Airport, Salalah Airport today is able to
receive all types of aircraft while providing sufficient
ground handling services. Fulfilling the aim of its
construction, the airport plays an important role in
the social, economic and tourism development of the
Governorate of Dhofar.
International flights commenced through Salalah
Airport in 2001, mostly carrying teachers to and from
Egypt and Sudan or carrying pilgrims to Saudi Arabia
for Hajj. Currently it is used mostly as a domestic airport,
connecting Oman’s north and south. As of December
2010, the scheduled airlines operating through Salalah
Airport were Air India Express, Felix Airways and
Oman Air which flies from Muscat to Salalah 4-5 times
a day. Salalah’s busiest traffic season is during the
Khareef Monsoon season from June to September when
people from around the Gulf visit to enjoy the lovely
weather and festivities.
In addition to its growing infrastructure, Salalah Airport
has also experienced a steady increase in passenger
numbers during the last ten years, especially with the
increase in Oman Air’s flights and the projection of
Salalah in Europe as a tourist destination with direct
charter flights from Europe. During 2010, nearly 455,000
passengers travelled through Salalah Airport. The
airport has capacity of 700,000 passengers per annum.
The following table shows the traffic activity of Salalah
Airport between 2000-2010
Passenger
182,823 455,297 149%
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
2,385 5,085 113%
Movements
Cargo & Mail

1,394 1,283 -8%
(Tons)
Road entrance leading to Salalah Airport
100
PRESENT
101
PRESENT
Development in the 21st Century
In order to keep pace with the influx of visitors and

growth in activity, Salalah Airport has undergone a
series of structural, operational and retail developments
in the last decade.
Welcome sign at Salalah Airport Landside view of Salalah Airport
102
PRESENT
103
PRESENT
Structural Developments was also expanded along with an increase in check-in

counters from six to ten and additional immigration
The main facet of the structural expansion plan was an counters. The VIP lounge at Salalah Airport was
enlarged international arrivals hall which included an renovated for a more luxurious experience.
additional baggage reclaim conveyor belt to provide
On the apron, the airport is able to park the largest
separate services for domestic and international
aircraft in the aviation industry, the Airbus A380. It
passengers, more immigration counters, queuing space has 6 parking bays with capacity to hold some of the
and additional restroom facilities. The departures hall widest aircraft and also has a helipad.
Salalah Airport Departures check-in hall
Salalah Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall Salalah Airport boarding gate waiting area
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PRESENT
Operational Developments
For both safety and operational reasons, an array of
upgrades to the meteorological operations at Salalah
Airport were undertaken. In 2004, a meteorological
building was constructed to hold all offices and facilities
related to meteorological operations. An automatic
weather station in Thumrait and marine buoy were set
up at Salalah Port to enhance this operational capacity.
Further upgrades were made towards this goal
including the installation of a wind data receiver and a
FLIGHTMAN system for receiving maps and data from
the meteorological authority. An Automatic Terminal
Air Traffic Control Tower at Salalah Airport
Information Service System (ATIS) was also installed
for easy access of the weather data.
To improve air traffic control, Voice Communication
Control System (VCCS) was installed for the control
tower and the Raytheon air traffic system was
upgraded. A new Flight Data Display set and screens
were installed for the new Aeronautical Information
Service office.
Today, all information including aeronautical,
meteorological and air navigation are collected at
Salalah Airport and stored using the most convenient
and scientific protocol currently available, ensuring
the safety of all flights into and out of Salalah Airport.
Ground Handling at Salalah Airport
Salalah Airport fire fighting & rescue facilities
105
PRESENT
Commercial Developments opened booths at Salalah Airport where customers

can buy telecom related services. Private taxis are
Salalah Airport’s commercial facilities have also
available for customer use outside the arrivals hall. A
improved greatly between 2000 and 2010 with the
opening of a restaurant, coffee shop and gift shop. money exchange facility also opened in 2004. Finally,
Moreover, today nine car rental companies have the airport has also made available a desk for incoming
branches at Salalah Airport, the first of which opened tourists seeking advice on popular attractions and
in 2002. Mobile telephone service providers have areas to visit.
Car Rental counters at Salalah Airport
Mobile telephone service counter at Salalah Airport Gift shop at Salalah Airport
106
PRESENT
Salalah Airport Aerodrome Information

Airport Name : Salalah Airport
City : Salalah
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Location Indicator Code : OOSA
International Air Transport Association (IATA) Location Indicator Code : SLL
Runway Length : 3,342 metres
Runway Width : 45 metres
Constant renovation and systemic upgrades have rendered Salalah Airport in 2010 nearly unrecognizable from its
state in 2000. The continuous striving to ensure safety, modernity and efficiency has kept the airport in a constant
state of growth and metamorphosis. The most intense part of this transformation is currently underway as the
Sultanate vigorously engineers cutting-edge additions to existing airport and build a brand new airport in Salalah.
Airside view of Salalah Airport
107
PRESENT

Salalah Airport-Passenger Numbers
50,000
Total
Year
Passengers
45,000
45,628 1978 38,654
40,000
1979 38,417
38,654 38,417
35,000 1980 45,628
30,000
1981 55,741
25,000
1982 57,667
0 1983 57,067
1978 1979 1980
1984 64,421
100,000
1985 71,838
90,000 1986 77,868
1987 68,785
80,000 85,234
81,764
1988 75,283
70,000 77,868
71,838
75,283 1989 81,764
68,785
60,000
64,421
1990 85,234
50,000 55,741 57,667 57,067
1991 80,928
0
1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1992 98,086
1993 121,659
200,000
1994 133,238
160,000
176,493 182,249 181,417 182,823 1995 147,803
161,911
140,000 1996 161,911
147,803
133,238 1997 176,493
100,000
121,659
98,086
1998 182,249
60,000
80,928 1999 181,417
20,000 2000 182,823
0
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
2001 180,141
600,000 2002 187,281
2003 184,285
500,000
2004 210,163
455,297
400,000
407,788
426,503 2005 251,808
300,000
337,679
2006 288,700
200,000
288,700 2007 337,679
251,808
187,281 184,285
210,163 2008 407,788
100,000 180,141
2009 426,503
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
2010 455,297
108
PRESENT

Salalah Airport-Civil Aircraft Movements
3,500
Civil Aircraft
Year
3,362 Movements
3,000
1978 3,362
2,500
1979 2,380
2,620
2,000 2,380 1980 2,620
1,500
1981 2,893
1,000
1982 2,962
0 1983 2,835
1978 1979 1980
1984 3,231
4000
1985 3,540
3,500 1986 3,132
3,540
1987 2,542
3,000 3,231 3,132
2,962 1988 2,444
2,893 2,835
2,500
2,542 1989 2,134
2,444
2,324
2,000 1990 2,324
2,134
1,500
1991 2,148
0
1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1992 2,448
1993 2,756
4,000
1994 2,861
3,600
3,840 1995 2,560
3,200 1996 2,607
1997 3,840
2,800
2,861 1998 2,508
2,756 2,607
2,400
2,448
2,560 2,508 1999 2,261
2,000 2,261 2,385
2000 2,385
2,148
0
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
2001 2,145
6,000 2002 2,794
5,000
2003 2,813
5,085
5,054 2004 3,015
4,000
4,215 4,248 2005 3,484
4,079
3,000
3,484 2006 4,215
3,015
2,000 2,794 2,813 2007 4,079
2,145
2008 4,248
1,000
2009 5,054
0
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
2010 5,085
109
PRESENT

Salalah Airport-Cargo & Mail Movements (in tons)
1,200
Cargo and Mail
Year
Movements
1,000
1978 256
800
1979 793
600 793 1980 506
400 506
1981 704
200 256 1982 545
0 1983 522
1978 1979 1980
1984 1,086
1,200
1985 656
1,000 1986 603
1,086
1987 500
800
1988 468
600
704 656 603
1989 407
400
545 522 500 468
562 1990 562
407
200
1991 658
0
1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1992 869
1993 727
1,500
1994 697
1,300
1,394 1995 538
1,100 1996 538
1,025 1997 679
900
869 1998 710

700
727
697
710 1999 1,025
658 679
500
538 538 2000 1,394
0
1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
2001 2,183
2,500 2002 1,917
2,200
2003 1,670
2,183
2004 1,267
1,900
1,917 2005 1,234
1,600 2006 1,441
1,670
1,300
2007 1,110
1,441
1,267 1,234
2008 1,129
1,284 1,283
1,000
1,110 1,129 2009 1,284
0 2010 1,283
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
110
PRESENT
standards, were modernised and certified for use by

Other Airports in Oman the Civil Aviation Affairs in 2008.
The airports are fully functional as all three are able
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) to provide rescue and fire fighting service at Category
Airports 7 and are equipped with an Airfield Ground Lighting
system. PDO’s airports are equipped with a modern
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is the foremost
terminal building and essential facilities.
exploration and production company in Oman. It
accounts for more than 70% of the country’s crude- Overall operation is split between PDO and contracted
oil production and nearly all of its natural-gas organizations. The company handles its own Flight
supply. PDO operates 3 airports in Oman, Marmul, Information Services while Oman Air executes ground
Fahud and Qarn Alam. For over 30 years Petroleum handling and Shell Marketing Oman performs aircraft
Development Oman used the unpaved runways refuelling. At least two flights, operated by Oman Air
around its concession areas in order to transport on behalf of PDO, serve each location daily. As the use
staff and contract employees to its oilfields. Recently of the airports increased with business demand over
however, the company modernised three airports at the past two years, the B737 aircraft was introduced to
its main oilfields: Marmul, Fahud and Qarn Alam. the airports, replacing the turbo prop aircraft in order
The airports, which meet international and national to transport staff more efficiently.
PDO Aerodrome Information

Airport Name Marmul Fahud Qarn Alam
Length / Width 2,561m x 45m 2,560m x 45m 2,560m X 45m
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Code OOMX OOFD OOGB
International Air Transport Association (IATA) Code OMM FAU RNM
Occidental Oman Airport (OXY) The airport has a compacted sand and gravel runway
and a concrete stand for one aircraft. Flight operations
Occidental Oman (OXY) is the second largest oil are restricted to daytime operations only as landing is
producer in Oman, having a concession agreement visual based. Currently, fuel facilities are not available
for oil production with the Government. OXY’s Oman in this airport. The airport provides fire fighting and
operations are concentrated at the giant Mukhaizna oil rescue category 4 level. The company handles an
field in south-central Oman, the Safah field in northern ‘essential information system’ at the airport while
Oman, and adjacent areas. OXY operates an airport Oman Air manages the ground handling. The terminal
in Mukhaizna for transporting their staff and contract building is small and can accommodate a maximum of
employees to its oilfields. 45 passengers.
OXY Aerodrome Information

Airport Name Mukhaizna
Runway Length / Width 2,300m x 46m
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Code OOMK
International Air Transport Association (IATA) Code UKH
112
PRESENT
PDO Airports’ runways (Marmul & Qarn Alam)
PDO Airport in Marmul
113
Dream,
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development@adp-i.com
117
FUTURE
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - aerial view
Just as the previous decades of Oman’s airport history compliment these developments the Sultanate’s
experienced tremendous increases in passenger and infrastructure is under focus for further development.
flight numbers, the future changes are certain to be All of these factors have contributed towards the need
significant. The number of airlines operating from for additional and bigger airports, a challenge the
the airport is increasing, the existing airlines are government is currently pursuing with vigour.
adding flights through and to Muscat International
In order to accommodate the booming tourism sector,
Airport and passengers on business and leisure trips
are multiplying. Oman Air, the national carrier, is Oman’s national carrier’s expansion and further
increasing both its fleet and number of destinations. developments of the Sultanate’s infrastructure, new
Oman’s tourism industry has become a target for airport projects for both Muscat International Airport
diversifying the national economy, thus visitors and Salalah Airports are currently underway and due
are expected to grow exponentially in numbers. To for completion in the coming years.
119
FUTURE
Muscat International Airport

In 2010, Muscat International Airport recorded a 26%
increase in passenger traffic to 5.7 million compared
to 4.5 million last year. At present, the current Muscat
International Airport is able to accommodate about
6.5 million passengers annually. Obviously the need
to revamp Muscat International Airport’s capacity has
become essential.
The construction of the new Muscat International

Airport will be the largest infrastructure project the
Omani government has undertaken in its history. After
the completion of the new airport, it will be able to
accommodate 12 million passenger per annum, with
the provision for expansion in stages to 24, 36 and 48
million respectively.
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - aerial view
view from Southeast
120
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121
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The project had to be redesigned in the aftermath

of the adverse weather condition which hit Oman
in 2007 and some of the airport plans had to be
re-worked in order to safeguard against future natural
disasters. The new airport is undergoing major
preparation with the ground levels being raised by
3 metres. This was done by transporting nearly 12
million cubic metres of desert sand, dredged sand
and crushed rock to the site. Additionally, three giant
culverts are being installed to the Sea of Oman which
has the combined capacity of 500 cubic metres of water
a second to protect the airport from flood surges.
The landside redevelopment will, once completed,
provide good connectivity for the airport including
7 bridges and interchanges and 60 km of access roads
on both the airside and landside of the new airport
and a new motorway feeding into the existing roads
which will, in turn, be widened.
Road bridges under construction as of October 2010 New runway under construction at Muscat International Airport
as of October 2010
122
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123
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Muscat International Airport Satellite View
As of 15th January 2011
124
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125
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Muscat International Airport Master Plan
As of October 2010
126
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127
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Contracts for Muscat International Airport

COWI, in a joint venture with Larsen Architects and adpi, the subsidiary of Aeroports de Paris, is the
Copenhagen Airports, are principal consultants on the project management consultant for the development of
expansion of Muscat International Airport in Oman. Muscat International Airport. adpi is providing project
As principal consultant, COWI is heading up the management consulting service and supervision of
joint venture that will carry out the large-scale airport the engineering phase, overview of tender allocations,
project from planning and designing to supervision supervision of building phases and supervision of
of the building works. The assignment comprises preparation for startup.
runways, approach roads, terminals, baggage handling
systems, control tower and all the other buildings and The project has been divided into various main contracts
installations needed in a modern airport. The aim is to and standard national contracts. As of December 2010,
design a state-of-the-art airport offering passengers a the contracts mentioned below have been awarded and
supreme degree of comfort and safety. the rest of the contracts are at various stages of award.
Main and Standard National Contracts for the New Muscat International Airport
Contracts Description Contract Awarded to*

Project
Project Management Consulting Service adpi
Management
Principal
Principal Consultant for Design and Supervision COWI - Larsen Joint Venture
Consultant
Civil Works - new Runway, Taxiway, Apron, landside Consolidated Contractors
MC1
development. Access road to terminal Company - TAV Joint Venture
Air Traffic Control (ATC), Air Traffic Management (ATM), Data
MC2 Centre (DC2), Contingency & Training Building (C&T), Crash, Carillion Alawi
Fire & Rescue (CFR)
Bechtel-ENKA-Bahwan
MC3 Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) Engineering Company - Joint
Venture
MC4A Civil Aviation Head Quarters Building Towell Construction Co. LLC
MC6 IT & Security Systems To be awarded
MC7 Operational Readiness & Airport Transfer (ORAT) Munich Airport
MC8 Baggage Handling Systems To be awarded
SNC9 Air Traffic Management Systems Indra
SNC10 Navigational Aids Systems Thales
SNC11 Passenger Boarding Bridges To be awarded
Detail Design and Construction of Cargo and Maintenance,
MC12 To be awarded
Repair and Over-haul Facilities
MC13 Detail Design and Construction of Catering Facilities To be awarded
MC-Main Contract
SNC-Standard National Contract *As of December 2010
128
FUTURE
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - Southeast view
Other Contracts Awarded for the New Muscat International Airport
Contract Description Contract Awarded to
Dredging works and soil reclamation Boskalis Westminister
Improving and strengthening the soil (Ground Improvement) Solitanche Pachy
Construction of channels to discharge wadi water and roadside paving works

Desert Line Projects
and installation of Culverts
Design, supply, install and commission a new radar Raytheon
Galfar Engineering and

Construction of rock fill for new runway and taxiway
Contracting
Relocation of water pipe lines and security fences Al Matar Company
Design and Construction Supervision services for Maintenance, Repair and

Ghafari Associates LLC
Overhaul Hangars and Cargo facilities
Design and Construction Supervision for In-Flight catering facilities Al-Hatmy Engineering
129
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New Muscat International Airport Project Main Features
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - aerial view
General Features
ÈÈ Designed for 12 million passengers per year
with provision for 24, 36 and upto 48 million
when the demand arises
ÈÈ Designed with international level of service A
ÈÈ Gross passenger terminal building floor area
334,995 sqm
ÈÈ Dedicated Departure/Arrival levels
ÈÈ Designed to accommodate Code F, Airbus 380
Aircraft
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport
ÈÈ Latest IT technology (36 systems in total) aerial view of South pier and West pier
130
FUTURE
Artist Impressions of New Muscat International Airport
Departures Gates at South pier
Check-in Hall with 86 check-in counters and 20 self service check-in kiosks
132
AIR TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT & AIRPORTs
More than
1200 InstallatIons
In over
90 countrIes
Indra was selected as the technological partner that will deploy the latest
state-of-the-art ATM technologies in Oman, enabling the DGMAN to become
an outstanding reference.
Indra’s highly reputed team has a lengthy track record of successful advanced
systems deployments, participating in forefront R&D programs.
It is fully committed to ATM & Airport customers dedicated to improving business

and traffic challenges with a focus on environmental sustainability.
Systems in 5 continents, 30,000 professionals, 106 countries, offices

in 35 countries, 500 €M invested in R&D in 3 years.
indracompany.com
FUTURE
Food Court
International Departure lounge
134
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Automated Passenger Mover at Arrivals level
Arrivals Hall with 8 international and 2 domestic arrival carousels. The Transfer area will have 24 check-in counters
136
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31 Emigration counters in the Departures Hall and 56 Immigration counters in the Arrivals Hall
Baggage Reclaim Hall

Designed for 4,800 bags per hour with 100% in-line security screening
138
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Landside Development of
New Muscat International Airport
ÈÈ New Civil Aviation Headquarter Building
ÈÈ New Oman Air Crew Building
ÈÈ New Flight Catering Unit designed for

24,000 meals per day
ÈÈ New Cargo Terminal designed for

Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - shaded car park with
260,000 tons per year
8,000 parking spaces in both multi storey and surface parking
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - Traffic concourse view from North, PTB
A new interchange will be built to access the Passenger Terminal Building from both sides of Sultan Qaboos Street and from 18th November Street
139
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Airside Development of New Muscat International Airport

ÈÈ A new 3,900m x 60m runway is to be constructed ÈÈ A new fire station dedicated to the northern
in the northern part of the airport site and runway is to be created (the existing one will be
associated taxiways. The existing runway will dedicated to the southern runway), along with a
be renovated and extended to 4,000m x 60m and new sea rescue station
will be Code F compliant, after opening of the
ÈÈ New Deportees Building with landside/airside
new runway
access
ÈÈ Fuel hydrant system for all parking stands
ÈÈ New Aircraft Maintenance Facilities with hangar
(contact and remote)
capacity for 2 wide body + 2 narrow body aircraft
ÈÈ Precision Approach Runway CAT II and
ÈÈ New Air Traffic Management Buildings
Meteorological Equipments
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - View of North Pier end
140
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Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - West pier & Air Traffic Control Tower. The height of the ATC tower will be 97m
141
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Exterior view of Centre West Pier end and ATC Tower
Air Traffic Control Tower with bridge house. It will have 29 passenger boarding bridges
142
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Artist Impression of New Muscat International Airport
Traffic concourse and Passenger Terminal Building detail view from South West
New Muscat International Airport Facts

Description Facts
Terminal Building Capacity – Stage 1 12 million passengers per annum (mppa)
Terminal Building Capacity – Stage 2 / 3 / 4 24 / 36 / 48 mppa
Total Gross Floor Area Terminal Building 334,995 m²
Car Parking Capacity 8,000
Air Traffic Control Tower Height 97m
Existing runway length after extension 4,000 x 60m
New Runway Specifications 3,900 x 60m
Boarding Bridges / Contact Stands 29
Bus Boarding Lounges 10
Remote Aircraft Stands 16 going to 27
Check-In Counters 86
Self service check-in kiosks 20
Emigration Counters - Departures 31
Immigration Counters – Arrivals 56
Arrivals Carousels 8 international + 2 domestic
Transfer Counters 24
Cargo Terminal Capacity 260,000 tons per annum
In-Flight Catering Capacity 24,000 meals per day
Aircraft Hangar Capacity 2 wide body + 2 narrow body
Airside Hotel Capacity 90 beds
143
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View from Southwest
144
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145
FUTURE
Passenger Terminal Building - front view
Passenger Terminal Building - rear view
146
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147
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Aerial view of entrance forecourt - PTB
148
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149
FUTURE
Salalah Airport
Dubbed as the Switzerland of Oman, Salalah’s tourist
season picks up between the months of June and
October. Tourism in Salalah is growing by the year
with many resorts planning to open in the Governorate
of Dhofar.
Between 2000 and 2010, Salalah Airport recorded a
149% increase in passenger traffic and 113% increase
in the number of civil aircraft movement. In order
to accommodate the booming tourism sector, and
the development of the Sultanate’s infrastructure, a
new airport project for Salalah Airport is currently
underway.
At present, the current Salalah Airport is able to
accommodate 700,000 passengers per annum but
after the completion of the new airport, it will be able
to accommodate 1 million passengers per annum
with provision for expansion to 2 and 6 million
subsequently.
Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - aerial view
152
FUTURE
153
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Salalah Airport Master Plan
As of October 2010
154
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155
FUTURE
Contracts for Salalah Airport

COWI, in a joint venture with Larsen Architects and adpi, the subsidiary of Aeroports de Paris, is the
Copenhagen Airports, are principal consultants on the project management consultant for the development of
expansion of Salalah Airport in Oman. As principal Salalah Airport. adpi is providing project management
consultant, COWI is heading up the joint venture consulting service and supervision of the engineering
that will carry out the large-scale airport project from phase, overview of tender allocations, supervision of
planning and designing to supervision of the building building phases and supervision of preparation for
works. The assignment comprises runways, approach startup.
roads, terminals, baggage handling systems, control
The project has been divided into various main contracts
tower and all the other buildings and installations
and standard national contracts. As of December 2010,
needed in a modern airport. The aim is to design a
the contracts mentioned below have been awarded and
state-of-the-art airport offering passengers a supreme
the rest of the contracts are at various stages of award.
degree of comfort and safety.
Main and Standard National Contracts for the New Salalah Airport
Project
Project Management Consulting Service adpi
Management
Principal
Principal Consultant for Design and Supervision COWI - Larsen Joint Venture
Consultant
Galfar Engineering &
Construction of new Terminal Building, new runway and other
MC5 Contracting and Larsen &
related work
Toubro - Joint Venture
MC6 IT & Security Systems To be awarded
MC7 Operational Readiness & Airport Transfer (ORAT) Munich Airport
MC8 Baggage Handling Systems To be awarded
Detail Design and Construction of Cargo and Maintenance,
MC12 To be awarded
Repair and Overhaul Facilities
MC13 Detail Design and Construction of Catering Facilities To be awarded
MC-Main Contract
Other Contracts Awarded for the New Salalah Airport

Contract Description Contract Awarded to
Design and Construction Supervision services of Maintenance, Repair and
Ghafari Associates LLC
Overhaul Hangars and Cargo facilities
Design and Construction Supervision of In-Flight catering facilities Al-Hatmy Engineering
156
FUTURE
New Salalah Airport General Features
ÈÈ Designed for 1 million passenger per year with

provision for 2 and 6 million passengers when
demand arises.
ÈÈ Designed with international level of service A
ÈÈ Gross passenger terminal building floor area

65,638 sqm.
ÈÈ Designed to accommodate Code F, Airbus A380

Aircraft
ÈÈ Latest IT technology
ÈÈ 12 aircraft parking stands including 8 contact stands Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - Check-in Hall
Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - Check-in counters with 24 check-in counters and 4 self service check-in kiosks
158
FUTURE
Artist Impressions of New Salalah Airport
Arrivals Hall Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall
Immigration counters
159
FUTURE
Landside Development of
New Salalah Airport
ÈÈ New access road from the northern side of the
airport
ÈÈ Car parks designed with capacity of 1,957 parking
spaces
ÈÈ In-Flight Catering Capacity (1,000 meals per day)
ÈÈ New Cargo terminal designed for 100,000 tons
per year
Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - VIP Lounge
Airside Development of
New Salalah Airport
ÈÈ A new 4,000m x 60m runway will be constructed
in the northern part of the airport site and
associated taxiway. It will be Code F compliant.
The existing runway is to be converted into a
parallel taxiway
ÈÈ ICAO CAT II compliant on both ends of the

runway, and new meteorological equipments
ÈÈ Fuel hydrant system for all parking stands
ÈÈ New Air Traffic Control Tower is located beside

the Passenger Terminal Building having a height
of 57m
ÈÈ New Rescue and Firefighting Station
ÈÈ Aircraft Hangar capacity for 1 wide body aircraft

Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - Gate Lounge
160
Helping SHape tHe Future oF oman’S airportS
salalah air cargo facility
Muscat aircraft Mro center
Muscat air cargo facility
Architects | engineers | consultAnts
w w w. g h A fA r i . c o m
FUTURE
Artist Impression of New Salalah Airport
The Arrivals Hall will have 2 international and 1 domestic arrival carousels. The Transfer area will have 4 check-in counters
New Salalah Airport Facts

Description Facts
Terminal Building Capacity – Stage 1 1 million passengers per annum (mppa)
Terminal Building Capacity – Stage 2 / 3 2 / 6 mppa
Total Gross Floor Area Terminal Building 65,638 sqm
Car Parking Capacity 1957
Existing runway Will become a parallel taxiway
New runway Specifications 4,000m x 60m
Boarding Bridges / Contact Stands 8
Remote Aircraft Stands 12
Emigration Counters - Departures 10
Immigration Counters – Arrivals 20
Arrivals Carousels 2 International + 1 Domestic
Transfer Counters 4
Cargo Terminal Capacity 100,000 tons per annum
In-Flight Catering Capacity 1,000 meals per day
Aircraft Hangar Capacity 1 wide body
162
FUTURE
Regional Airports
Adam Sohar
Ras Al Hadd Ad Duqm
Along with major expansions to Muscat International Phase 2 involves the construction of the runway and
Airport and Salalah Airport, the government is building installation of aircraft landing instruments;
four new airports linking other regions with Muscat Phase 3 includes the construction of the Passenger
as part of a larger plan to develop Oman’s ability to Terminal Building.
meet the increasing number of tourists and business
The regional airports will be built as per international
travellers as well as supporting the local communities.
requirements and designed to World Class A standards.
The new airports will be in Sohar, Ras Al Hadd,
The runways are 4,000 metres in length and 60 metres
Ad Duqm and Adam. The Adam airport is nearly
wide and will be equipped with precision approach
complete with a service road, access road, runway
runway CAT I and provision for CAT II. The runways
and apron. All of the new airports will be managed
will be designed and built to ‘Code F’ standards of
and operated post-construction by Oman Airports
the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
Management Company.
and will be capable of accommodating the largest
All four regional airports are being constructed in commercial aircraft in the world, the Airbus A380.
three phases:
Each regional airport will have a uniquely designed
Phase 1 includes civil works entailing the provision of air traffic control tower, a radar and a meteorological
utilities, fencing and road access to the airport site; station.
163
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Adam Airport
Artist impression of Adam Airport
164
FUTURE
Adam Airport, the smallest of these projects and the first in the interior region is situated at a site 30km from Adam town.
As of the 23rd July 2010, Adam Airport was the first of the regional airports to open and became partially operational
with the inaugural test flight from Muscat landing at Adam Airport.
Adam Airport Facts
Description Facts
Terminal Building Capacity 250,000 Passengers per annum
New runway Specifications 4,000 x 60m
Aircraft Stands 6
Check-In Counters 5
Self service check-in kiosk 1
Arrivals Carousels 1
In-Flight Catering Capacity 350 meals per day
Contracts for Adam Airport

Project Management Project Management Consulting Service adpi
Design and Supervision of Civil works, Runway Gulf Engineering Joint venture with Pryde
Principal Consultant
and Terminal building Schropp Mc Comb Inc.
Civil works entailing the provision of utilities,

Package 1
fencing and road access to the airport site
Strabag Oman
Construction of the runway and installation of
Package 2
aircraft landing instruments
Construction of a Commercial Passenger

Package 3 To be awarded
Terminal Building
*As of December 2010

Standard National Contracts for Adam Airport
165
FUTURE
Ad Duqm Airport
Artist impression of Ad Duqm Airport
166
FUTURE
Ad Duqm Airport is currently being built as part The new Ad Duqm Airport will serve as a gateway
of a larger plan to set up a modern seaport in the into a region with significant economic, industrial
south east of Oman. Ad Duqm is a site of potentially and commercial potential. Besides providing business
substantial investment and industrial development investors, company executives and government
officials with a speedy and convenient mode of
related to the oil shipping industry with a dry dock
transport, the airport also has the potential to open up
being built. The new airport is primarily expected to
Ad Duqm to tourism related investment. The coastal
handle business and traffic but may also become part city of Ad Duqm is planned to be Oman’s next major
of the tourism industry. industrial and shipping hub.
Ad Duqm Airport Facts
Description Facts
Aircraft Stands 4
Cargo Terminal Capacity 50,000 Tons per annum
Contracts for Ad Duqm Airport

Parsons International & Company
(Design) Runway, Taxiway, Access road, Terminal
Principal Consultant building and other facilities Ibn Khaldun Almadaen Engineering
(Supervision) Consultants
Package 1 Desert Line Projects LLC
Construction of the runway and installation of Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction
Package 2
aircraft landing instruments Co., Ltd
Package 3 To Be Awarded
Terminal Building
Standard National Contracts for Ad Duqm Airport
167
FUTURE
Ras Al Hadd Airport
Artist impression of Ras Al Hadd Airport
168
FUTURE
Ras Al Hadd Airport, located near the town Sur in observed in their natural habitat and this attracts
the Sharqiya region aims to offer tourists the chance thousands of visitors every year. The airport will
to avoid long road commutes from Muscat and is part compliment the development of a number of eco-
of a larger plan for eco-tourism integrated projects tourist resorts along Oman’s eastern coast.
such as the one related to the endangered Green Back
A concentrated effort exists to develop the area in
turtles.
a manner consistent with luxury and eco-tourism
The beaches at Ras Al Jinz are home to some of the which will attract selective tourists who have a
rarest turtles in the world. These turtles may be specific interest in eco-tourism to Oman.
Ras Al Hadd Airport Facts
Description Facts
Aircraft Stands 6
Contracts for Ras Al Hadd Airport

Contracts Descriptions Contract Awarded to*
Design and Supervision of Civil works, Runway Gulf Engineering Joint venture with Pryde
and Terminal building Schropp Mc Comb Inc.
Package 1 Desert Line Projects
Package 2 Galfar Engineering & Contracting
Package 3 To be Awarded
Terminal Building
Standard National Contracts for Ras Al Hadd Airport
169
FUTURE
Sohar Airport
Artist impression of Sohar Airport
170
FUTURE
Sohar Airport, about 10km northwest of Sohar will help The airport will add to a modern multimodal transport
avoid the 2 hour long drive from either Muscat or Dubai. network that will fuel further economic growth in the
Sohar and the wider Batinah region have in recent years Batinah region. It is being built within the proximity
attracted industrial and commercial infrastructure of the major commercial, industrial and economic
investments. Moreover, cargo to Sohar is expected to centres of Sohar including the Port of Sohar Special
increase in volume due to expected congestion at Sultan Economic Zone and will compliment the future plans
Qaboos Port in Muscat. The airport will also serve as for a major expressway and rail network which will
a new gateway for passenger, cargo and courier traffic underpin the port city’s eventual transformation into
in northern Oman and a domestic and emergency a major industrial and economic hub on the Batinah
alternative to Muscat International Airport. coast.
Sohar Airport Facts

Description Facts
Aircraft Stands 4
Cargo Terminal Capacity 50,000 Tons per annum
Contracts for Sohar Airport

Contracts Descriptions Contract Awarded to*
Design and Supervision of Civil works, Runway
Principal Consultant Hamza Associates
and Terminal building
Package 1 Strabag Oman
Package 2 Strabag Oman
Package 3 To be Awarded
Terminal Building
Standard National Contracts for Sohar Airport
171
Fly the Oman Airbus A330 non-stop from Muscat to London, Frankfurt, Munich, Paris, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur,
Maldives, Colombo and Milan in absolute luxury. Take off to new heights of flying comfort on our new fleet of
Airbus A330s. From industry- leading First Class Mini Suites to a large leather couch to sit back and relax in.
From Business Class flatbeds with four abreast seating to unrivalled entertainment on state-of-the art Thales
i5000 Audio Video On- Demand System that is standard in every seat with live TV channels. Top that with wi-fi
facility, laptop charging, SMS, phone and email access from your seat*. Choose your favourites from the
signature cuisine and enjoy delightful customer service that truly pampers you.
175
The appointed airport space advertising concessionaire for Muscat International & Salalah Airports
176
AIRPORT ORGANISATIONS
Airport operations are dynamic and complex and involve an infinite number of
meticulous tasks. In Oman, the operational duties are split among four main
organisations; Oman Airports Management Company S.A.O.C., Ministry of
Transport & Communications - Civil Aviation Affairs, Royal Oman Police
(ROP) and Oman Air (Ground Handling, Engineering, Cargo and Catering).
Each organisation provides services to airlines and passengers and their
contribution is essential.
In 2008, Muscat International Airport was ranked the fourth best airport in
the Middle East for its service quality in a survey conducted by the Airports
Council International. Recognition such as this stems from the hard work of
the cooperating partners, all of whom play a distinct yet crucial role in the
airport’s efficient and customer friendly operations.
177
The Safety Compliance and Maintenance department's

main function is to manage the airports assets and
infrastructure, maintenance plans, health and safety
policies and plan, manage the company’s procurement
process and general cleaning contracts at the airport.
The Operations department’s terminal duties include
general terminal building management and providing
Oman Airports Management Company S.A.O.C
continuous flight information display updates. Airside
(OAMC) is a closed joint stock company owned by
airfield management includes runway and apron
the Government of the Sultanate of Oman. OAMC management and fire fighting services to handle
is responsible for the management and operation of accidents or emergencies if they occur.
Muscat International and Salalah Airports and for the
The Readiness department represents the company on
future new airports of Sohar, Adam, Ad Duqm and
the new airport development projects will ensure that
Ras Al Hadd.
OAMC is fully prepared to operate all the new airports.
The infrastructure of the airports such as the terminal
The Finance & Information Technology department's
buildings, cargo building, runway, apron, airport main function is managing accounting, financial
car parking is directly under OAMC’s management. planning, business plans, budgets, management
The company has eight departments, namely; Safety information system and income tax issues, Information
Compliance and Maintenance, Operations, Readiness, Technology, cash management, treasury functions,
Finance & Information Technology, Human Resources, investments, banking relations and risk management
Commercial, Marketing and an independently including insurance.
functioning department at Salalah Airport which The HR department's core function is to manage
covers the maintenance, operation and fire services various tasks pertaining to Human Resources such as
at Salalah Airport. Each of these departments handle manpower planning and resources, remuneration and
numerous tasks and report directly to the CEO. The benefits, learning and staff development, policy and
CEO reports to the Chairman of the Board of Directors procedures, recruitment and general administration.
who has an independent unit comprising of the All these functions are necessary to ensure the smooth
Chairman’s office and internal audit. operation of the Airport.
The Fire Station at Muscat International Airport New lightweight trolleys
178
The Commercial department is responsible for International Airport (formerly Seeb International
maximizing the non-aeronautical revenues, which Airport) and to develop commercial and retailing
includes ground handling, retail, food and beverage facilities, airline route development and provide
and other ‘passenger experience’ enhancing offers. At airport management expertise. During this time
the same time, Commercial strives to continuously Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC)
improve the overall offer and provide an international was formed, the shareholding of the company was
experience through facilities and services operated BAA, Suhail Bahwan Group, ABB Equity Ventures,
by brand leaders at Muscat International & Salalah the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and
Airports. Oman Aviation Services. However, in 2004 Oman’s
government resumed the management and operation
The Marketing department’s main function is
of the airports after it and BAA could not reach a
to attract new airlines to start air services and to
financial agreement for the new terminal. OAMC
encourage existing airlines to increase flights. Other
was maintained as a private company with a change
functions of the department include airline relations,
in the shareholding of the company to government
website management, airport traffic statistics, media,
ownership.
advertisement and public relations.
Salalah Airport is responsible for the overall day to day
airport activities including maintenance, operations,
fire services, HR, commercial, marketing and finance
in coordination with the corresponding departments
in the Muscat office.
During an era of privatization, Oman became the
first Gulf country to privatize the management of
its airports. In 2002 the government of the Sultanate
of Oman signed a 25 year concession deal with
British Airport Authority (BAA) and its partners
to manage and develop the two airports of Muscat
and Salalah. The main elements of the agreement
were to build a new terminal building for Muscat
Airfield operations at Muscat International Airport
Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS)
179
4. Department of Forecasting and Observing Practices

This department issues aviation and marine weather
forecasts and warnings and also provides all flights
departing Muscat International Airport with a
meteorological flight folder. It also issues marine
Ministry of weather forecasts covering all Omani coasts.
Transport & Communications 5. Department of Aviation Systems and Standards
Civil Aviation Affairs This department proposes and supervises the
amendment to the Civil Aviation Law in the Sultanate
Civil Aviation Affairs functions under the Ministry in coordination with the other concerned authorities.
of Transport and Communications. It comprises of 13 Also, it considers recommendations submitted by
departments. ICAO regarding the Annex’s whether conforming to
1. Flight Safety Department or contradicting the Sultanate’s Civil Aviation Law.
This department is responsible for implementation of 6. Department of Air Navigation Safety

civil aviation laws, standards and Annex’s pertaining This department ensures the standards and procedures
to the International Civil Aviation Organization of air traffic control, air navigation and meteorology,
(ICAO) applicable to air operators and the accredited according to the standards of ICAO, WMO and Civil
maintenance establishments. This department also Aviation Systems of Oman. The department ensures
approves pilots’ training schools, aircraft maintenance that all air traffic control staff avail licenses relevant
training centres and aircraft maintenance companies. to the Civil Aviation Law and ICAO Annex’s, also it
It also prepares air operator's certificate, approval of air controls and inspects Air Traffic Control & Meteorology
operation, aircraft registration, aircraft airworthiness Units and Aviation Information Systems.
certificate and radio station installation certificates for
aircraft registered in the Sultanate of Oman. 7. Department of Air Traffic Services
2. Airports Safety Department This department provides air traffic control services
within the parametres of Muscat Flight Information
This department issues licenses for airports, aviation
Region through control towers, approach radar and
training colleges, institutes, prepares and executes
flight information region. It also assumes the planning
programs related to the Sultanate’s airports safety,
and amendment of air paths in Oman in order to
supervision of airports' operators and ensure that the
ensure compatibility with international standards
airport management is operated in accordance with
through utilizing modern air navigation technologies.
ICAO and national standards & regulations.
3. Department of Operations and Technical Services 8. Department of Air Navigation
This department takes responsibility for improving This department is dedicated to operating and
and developing meteorology systems and devises, maintaining the systems of navigation ancillaries,
improving and developing systems, equipment reconnaissance equipment and the land/air
and networks according to technical standard communications systems that aid air movements in
specifications issued by World Meteorological the vicinity of Muscat International Airport, other
Organization (WMO) and ICAO for different stations areas in the Sultanate and other regional airports. The
and to receive satellite images and data pertaining to department also operates and maintains air traffic
meteorology. control systems.
180
9. Air Transport Department 13. ‫‏‬Projects Department

The Air Transport department is responsible for ‫ ‏‬his department prepares the development plans for
T
securing air traffic rights for the designated airlines the airports, oversees the implementation of Civil
of the Sultanate of Oman and to increase air traffic Aviation Affairs' projects and coordinates with other
movements with other countries through negotiations departments to set up the five-year plan for different
with relevant authorities and conclude agreements. projects and prepares the estimated costs.
The department also issues permits for overflying and
It is also responsible for setting up studies and plans
landing aircrafts for commercial scheduled and charter
for the perceptions about the Sultanate’s airports and
airlines. The department also compiles statistics for
their future expansion. It prepares the documents,
passenger, cargo, aircraft and mail movements for all
specifications and conditions of tenders in order to
the airports in the Sultanate of Oman.
appoint consultants and contractors. The department
10. Department of Salalah Airport follows the implementation of projects pertaining to
structural and contractual terms to ensure the projects
This department consists of several sections,
are implemented in the specified period and required
including the Department of the Air Traffic
quality within the estimated costs. The department
Management, Department of Communications and
also maintains the sites belonging to Civil Aviation
Navigation, Department of Meteorology, where the
Affairs.
department supervise and follow-up procedures
for the implementation and installation, testing
and maintenance of all communications equipment
including meteorological and navigational aids, radar
systems, air traffic control and information systems.
11. Department of Security and Facilitation
This department prepares, maintains and supervises
the execution of the national program for aviation
security to ensure continuity of the Sultanate’s
adherence to its obligations and the conformity of the
program to the Government’s policy. It also determines
and allocates missions within the Government’s policy
in order to apply the national program for aviation
security and facilities across various airport agencies.
12. Department of Aviation Accident Investigation
This department functions independently at the Civil
Aviation Affairs. It investigates aviation accidents
occurring in the territory of the Sultanate and
investigates incidents related to aircraft, airports
and air traffic control in the Sultanate according to
categorization. It also recommends the formation
of committees dedicated in investigations together
in coordination with global agencies and foreign
organisations to assist for the purpose of investigating
aviation accidents. Air Traffic Control Tower at Muscat International Airport
181
The ROP also keeps surveillance over airport users

such as passengers and airport employees to ensure
they are permitted to enter and leave the authorized
areas.
Airport security is also carried out on passengers,
Royal Oman Police (ROP) baggage and cargo to ensure that all restricted items
which might endanger civil aviation are prohibited
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) responsibility is to
from entering the airport and the aircraft.
maintain public order, general security, accepted
standards of behaviour, protection of human life, The ROP also controls vehicle traffic in front of the
terminal building to ensure the smooth embarking
money, moral values and honour. They are constantly
and disembarking of passengers and their luggage
vigilant to prevent the acts of crime while apprehending
from their vehicles.
those who commit them and provide tranquility and
peace of mind in all aspects. The responsibility of ROP Airport Customs
as the Directorate General of Airport Security includes The ROP is represented through the Directorate General
the following three main areas, Security, Customs, of Customs to supervise customs and security control
Passport and Residence. pertaining to imports and exports and collecting the
stipulated customs fees. They also combat smuggling
Airport Security by preventing entry of restricted commodities and
In order to ensure airport security, the ROP is goods in accordance with the rules and regulations.
represented by the Directorate General of Airport In order to keep up with rapid improvements that the
Security to secure and guard all entrance and exit world is witnessing in the fields of modern technology,
points of the terminal building, airside apron area and the Directorate General of Customs has automated
boundaries of the airport. They also ensure that the the customs procedures in all customs points at the
operational areas which are vital and sensitive are well arrivals and departures halls in the terminal building
protected. and the cargo complex.
Departures security check at Muscat International Airport
182
Passport and Residence at the Airport

The responsibility of the ROP Directorate General of
Passport and Residence at the airport is to issue visas,
verify travel documents of passengers during arrivals
and departures and to ensure that passengers are
carrying the proper documents while entering and
departing the Sultanate of Oman.
Visa on arrival is available to certain expatriate
nationalities eligible to obtain visa on arrival at the
airport. These passengers can avail this by presenting
valid travel documents and the payment of visa fees.
The ROP has recently introduced the electronic e-gates
at arrivals and departures at Muscat International
Airport where Omani Nationals as well as residents
of Oman with valid ID cards can proceed directly
through the electronic e-gates without getting their
passport stamped.
E-gates at Muscat International Airport
Passport and Residence Control at Muscat International Airport
183
who need extra assistance on their journey through

the airport, such as those with restricted mobility or
unaccompanied minors. The company performs all
check-in and boarding functions at the airport. In
addition, it is also responsible for baggage tracing for
those who have become separated from their baggage
Oman’s national airline commenced international during their journey. The company uses the latest
operations in 1993 and has already grown rapidly to world tracing system to locate lost items of luggage
become one of the world’s leading airlines during this and maintains an online website service for passengers
short period. In 2009, Oman Air took delivery of the to monitor the location of their bags. The company
first of its fleet of state-of-the-art wide bodied A330 also performs all ramp related services. This includes
aircraft and became the first to offer mobile phone and full ramp servicing, including marshalling, push
WiFi services for its passengers. As of December 2010, back, passenger stair operations, aircraft cleaning,
Oman Air flies to 41 destinations in 22 countries with loading of baggage, cargo and mail onto the aircraft.
a fleet of 23 aircraft. Muscat International Airport is It is also responsible for the bussing operation which
the home base of Oman Air and the central hub for moves passengers between the aircraft and terminal
its continually expanding operations. Oman Air is buildings and for performing the weight and balance
the sole company at Muscat International & Salalah and inventory control functions which are paramount
Airports offering ground handling, engineering to safe aircraft handling and despatch.
support, catering and cargo services.
Engineering
Oman Air Ground Handling Third Party and Technical Support Department under
Oman Air’s ground handling division provides the Oman Air Engineering Department provides
full aircraft handling for both passenger and ramp Technical Ground Handling services to all wide and
services to both Oman Air and all third party customer narrow body aircraft at Muscat International Airport,
airlines. The passenger service function looks after maintaining the highest safety standards and practices,
all aspects of passenger handling. This includes the the department is an internationally approved
exclusive handling of VIPs, First and Business Class organization and has a fully qualified strength of
passengers, as well as those travelling in Economy licensed engineers and well experienced technicians,
Class. Additional services are provided to those working in shifts around the clock.
Aircraft stands at Muscat International Airport
184
Oman Air Catering

Oman Air catering operates a catering facility
at Muscat International Airport, which not only
produces over 9,300 meals a day and operates
24/7 but is considered the most modern among all
other Gulf airports' catering facilities. The catering
services are offered to all airlines and outdoor
catering. In-flight meals are tailored to complement
the airline destination and include a range of
special meals for those with dietary or religious
requirements.
Oman Air Cargo
Oman Air Engineering & Maintenance facilities at
The company is responsible for all airport cargo Muscat International Airport
services to its own airline and all other airlines
operating though the airport. To do this as
efficiently as possible the cargo department runs
an automated cargo handling system, the “Import
Cargo Section” for documentation, warehousing
and delivery which provides 24 hour information on
cargo arrivals and schedules. The cargo department
checks, stores and documents incoming cargo
and within hours, makes it available for customs
clearance. It provides quick-service facilities for
perishable goods and special cargo.
For goods that cannot be immediately removed, it
provides the necessary storage for different cargo
items such as cold and freezer storages, hazardous
item storage, facilities for newspapers, diplomatic
Oman Air catering service at Muscat International Airport
mail and a separate storage for valuable cargo.
Oman Air Cargo building at Muscat International Airport
185
CONCLUSION
In comparing the first and oldest Omani Airport, Bait Al-Falaj, to
the avant-garde blue prints for the future Muscat International
Airport, it is difficult to conceive of the speed with which Oman’s
airports have grown. The stages of airport development have
been many and meticulous, yet completed successively to bring
us to this point. At this time, one can once again marvel at what
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said alluded to in 1970, the
entrance of the Omani people into a new era, distinguishable
from the last.
1960 1970 1980
1990 2000 2010
The Future
186

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Past, Present and Prosperous Future

In the Name of Allah Most Gracious Most Merciful

“There is no doubt that our opening of

Hence we would like to place on record

27th Dhul Qa’aidah 1393 AH

© Copyright Potential Advertising & Publishing

P.O. Box 3398 • P.C. 112 • Sultanate of Oman

Designing, Compilation & Marketing by

AIRPORT ORGANISATIONS............. 175

Aerial view of Bait Al-Falaj Airport

Bait Al-Falaj Airport

“Bait Al-Falaj, A temporary landing

Bait Al-Falaj Airport

“Beavers” parked at Bait Al-Falaj Airport in the mid 60’s

John James: A pilot stationed in Muscat in 1959-1961,

View of Bait Al-Falaj Airport surrounded by steep hills

Arrival of His Majesty

Roads linked Al Azaiba and the drilling locations in

Azaiba Camp in 1970 [Picture courtesy: Erik Van Scherpenzeel]

“Al-Udhaybah, (often spelled Azaiba),

As a leading producer of energy-efficient solutions, ABB helps deliver

Inauguration of Seeb International Airport

Seeb International Airport

Official inauguration of Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport)

Shortly after its opening, the airport in Seeb

Temporary Seeb International Airport building

In demonstration of the airport’s

Lockheed Tristar of America – one of the largest aircraft at that time

Located 32km west of the city, the airport was equipped

The daily launching of a balloon to measure wind speed and direction

Gulf Air VC-10 aircraft being refuelled at Seeb International Airport

Seeb International Airport through the 1970s

Both the prayer room and VIP Terminal were located

Passengers at passport control

Jumbo B-747 and Gulf Air VC-10 on the parking apron

From 1st July 1974, Middle

Arriving passengers waiting for their luggage

Front view of Arrivals Terminal

For Seeb International Airport, the seventies were

Type of Activity 1974 1980 Variance

Cargo & Mail

Moreover, by the end of 1973, the year of its

Customs officials at Seeb International Airport

Front view of Departures Terminal

Seeb International Airport’s renovations and Improvements to the airport infrastructure:

Fire station was re-equipped with latest fire trucks

Transfer waiting lounge for passengers Cafeteria at Seeb International Airport

National air carrier, Gulf Air VC-10 at Seeb International Airport

Oman was selected by

Duty Free Shop

Airside view of Seeb International Airport

Air Traffic Control Tower at Seeb International Airport

Seeb International Airport

Seeb International Airport through the 1980s

Landside view of Seeb International Airport

Architect’s Drawing of Seeb International Airport 1980

In the eighties, Seeb International Airport witnessed

Refurbished restaurant at Seeb International Airport

The welcome hall at Arrivals

In just 10 years (1973-1983), the

Part of the almost doubled in size Departures check-in area

Customs counters in the new hall

The new Arrivals Baggage Reclaim Hall

Part of the transfer lounge Immigration Control Counters