Bait Al-Falaj Airport

Transcription

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:
CONTENTS
Introduction............................................ 8
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
PAST.........................................................................9
Bait Al-Falaj Airport...................................................11
Azaiba Airfield.........................................................17
Tariq Abdulaziz Al-Farsi, Head of Airfield and Terminal Operations
Walaa Mubarak Al Zadjali, Marketing Officer
Acknowledgements:
PRESENT............................................................. 19
Hamid Mohammed Al-Qasmi - Images & Information
Inauguration of Seeb International Airport....................22
adpi & COWI - Larsen Joint Venture - Artist impressions of
future airports and specifications
Seeb International Airport through the 1970s...............30
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
Air Traffic Statistics....................................................77
Salalah Airport ........................................................81
Air Traffic Statistics....................................................92
Other Airports in Oman.............................................95
John Fitzpatrick - Picture Page No. 60
Disclaimer:
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all editorial
and advertising matter in this publication, the publisher cannot accept
liability for any advertising contents.
© Copyright Potential Advertising & Publishing
FUTURE............................................................... 97
Muscat International Airport.................................... 100
Salalah Airport...................................................... 126
Regional Airports................................................... 135
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any
form by any means – photocopying, recording, electronic, mechanical or
otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher.
Published by:
AIRPORT ORGANISATIONS............. 144
Oman Airports Management Company.................... 146
Civil Aviation Affairs............................................... 148
P.O. Box 3398 • P.C. 112 • Sultanate of Oman
Royal Oman Police................................................. 150
T: +968 2478 6828 • F: +968 2470 8448
Oman Air............................................................. 152
Designing, Compilation & Marketing by
Al Rawahy Group of Co. (Potential)
P.O. Box 2764 • Seeb 111 • Sultanate of Oman
T: +968 2478 7158 • F: +968 2478 7130
Conclusion............................................... 154
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.
8
9
PAST
PAST
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
countries.
Bait Al-Falaj Airport, fitted with limited equipment and facilities to
serve as a civilian airport. It had a communication centre, a customs
office, asphalt parking for aircraft and a maintenance shed
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.
Bait Al-Falaj Airport with Gulf Aviation BAC 1-11 and F-27
10
11
PAST
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
impending modernity implied by a nearby aircraft
was heavily used during the 1950s,
and
then
became
the
principal
Twin Pioneer aircraft parked at Bait Al-Falaj Airport [Picture courtesy: John James]
airfield for the newly created Oman’s
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”.
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
The rear view of Bait Al-Falaj Airport
“Beavers” parked at Bait Al-Falaj Airport in the mid 60’s
12
A rear view panorama of Bait Al-Falaj Airport in 1971, with Ruwi valley in the background
13
PAST
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.”
During the seventies the need for a new airport to
replace Bait Al-Falaj Airport quickly became obvious.
Aside from its insufficient ability to serve civilian
passengers and infrastructure, Bait Al-Falaj Airport
was situated between towering mountains and steep
hills rendering it very difficult and even dangerous
for pilots. Landing required a sharp approach into a
narrow opening and an acute turn halfway down the
short runway. Indeed the airport was fraught with
frequent failed landings and crashes.
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]
View of Bait Al-Falaj Airport surrounded by steep hills
14
15
PAST
PAST
Roads linked Al Azaiba and the drilling locations in
the interior via the Samail Gap.
Azaiba Airfield
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
16
Azaiba air strip was used not only by Gulf Aviation
but Trans Mediterranean Airline (TMA) also used
this facility as a complete cargo outfit. They would
fly in fresh foodstuff from Lebanon and Jordan to
Oman directly through the Azaiba airfield. Azaiba
airfield was preferred for the ease of flying in and out
compared to Bait Al-Falaj. However, it was not really
adequate for further expansion as Azaiba was outside
the capital area. Once the goods were off loaded
it had to be transported to the capital area and to
Ras Al Hamra, PDO headquarters.
Though Bait Al-Falaj was the main airfield during 1970,
there were a few other airfields also functional during
this time. All these airfields were predominantly used
for military purposes, but some of them were also
shared for oil exploration and civil aircraft movements.
During 1956, the conditions were so treacherous for
petroleum development, Petroleum Development
Oman (PDO) was looking for alternative routes for
oil rigs, hence towards the end of 1956, PDO began
negotiations with the Government for a beach-head
at Saih Al Maleh, which was declared a port on 1st
January 1958, and for a depot and airstrip west of
Al Azaiba having ruled out other possible sites at
Bander Al Jissah and Ras Al Hadd. It was finally
decided on January 1957 to transfer the depot to
Al Azaiba, where an airstrip was soon constructed.
In 1960, when Shell officially took over the management
of PDO, the Azaiba camp was closed down and handed
over to the army.
Source - PDO (Underground to Overseas by – Sir Terence Clark)
Source - Michael Stokes
Azaiba Camp in 1970 [Picture courtesy: Erik Van Scherpenzeel]
17
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
18
19
PRESENT
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
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)
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
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.
21
PRESENT
PRESENT
Inauguration of Seeb International Airport
The airport was completed three years later and
opened for operation on 1st January 1973. On 17th
October operations moved from the temporary
facilities to the main terminal, leaving the area to be
used for cargo and later for the current VIP Terminal.
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos conducted official
inspections of Seeb International Airport himself on
23rd September and 11th December 1973 before he
officially inaugurated it on the 23rd December that
year. HM’s personal aircraft was the first aircraft
with an Omani registration to land at the Seeb
International Airport. Thus with the inauguration
of Seeb International Airport, civil aviation in Oman
entered an exciting new era.
Seeb International Airport
With the advent of the Renaissance and His Majesty
Sultan Qaboos’ forward thinking socio-economic
policy, instructions to build a new airport in Seeb
were released by Royal Decree as part of a plan to
expand Oman’s physical infrastructure. The new
airport was also part of a goal to establish links
with the rest of the world and serve the needs of
foreign investors and companies that began work in
Oman shortly after the oil boom. The government
anticipated a growth in passenger and cargo
transport, and consequently appointed Netherlands
Airport Consultancy Company (NACO) in 1970 to
design and supervise the construction. Joannou &
Paraskevaides (Overseas) Ltd. were awarded the
tender to construct the runway, taxiways and aircraft
stands.
Mezoon Airport, was the name initially proposed for
the new airport, however before the airport was ready
and during the construction phase it was decided
to rename the airport to the town it was located in,
giving it the name Seeb International Airport.
Mezoon Airport - Electrical Drawing 1971.
22
Official inauguration of Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport) by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on 23rd December 1973
23
PRESENT
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
on the occasion of inauguration of Seeb International
Airport (currently Muscat International Airport):
the story of two consecutive eras; the difference is enormous
but the time lapsed between them is short.
Dear brothers, as Oman raises its flag over this airport,
declares its sovereignty, embracing the sky and shadowing
its beloved people with peace and safety, is looking forward
to more great achievements that can reflect the civilized
status and positive effectiveness in the Arabian region.
In The Name of Allah The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful
It gives me great pleasure to be among you in this historical
moment of this special day in the history of our precious
country. This is a beloved occasion to our hearts as we
are awaiting its opening, while we are laying down the
milestone of the constructive journey.
The significance of this occasion is great, as we are officially
inaugurating today our largest gateway through which we
will emerge towards the world in a major appearance with
all the optimism and hope that our country will step into the
civilization of the era in which we live.
We thank all the employees who contributed to the
completion of this vital and important facility, we commend
all employees working in this airport to become the sincere
interface which reflects the reality of this country by the good
treatment and the generosity of ethics, giving continuous
care and full maintenance to this place, this is considered as
the obligation and that is honesty.
On this day we are inaugurating Seeb International Airport
to link our country with the world to become a bridge,
confirms the development process which characterized this
phase of the history of our country.
Allah with your blessings to our work, and with your
guidance and name we inaugurate Seeb International
Airport, we ask Allah to help us in working for the best
interest of our country and our nation.
A glance at what was the old Bait Al-Falaj and a glance at
this airport we inaugurate today, is quite sufficient to tell
May Allah guide us all
Peace, mercy and blessings of Allah
24
Official inauguration of Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport)
A postage stamp was released on the commemoration of the opening of
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s personal aircraft was the first aircraft
with an Omani Registration to land at Seeb International Airport
25
PRESENT
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]
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
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.
Temporary Seeb International Airport building
Lockheed Tristar of America – one of the largest aircraft at that time
26
27
PRESENT
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.
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
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.
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.”
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
28
A view of F-27 and VC-10 aircraft on the parking apron at Seeb International Airport
29
PRESENT
PRESENT
Seeb International Airport through the 1970s
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
Aerial view of Seeb International Airport [Picture courtesy: Erik Van Scherpenzeel]
In the 1970s, the beginning of Seeb International
Airport was quite humble and was gradually
developed throughout the following decades. Seeb
International Airport was initially one terminal split
by a wall into two halls (arrivals and departures) and
its cargo building was closer to the central airport
building (today this location is the VIP Terminal).
The airport had only two departure gates which were
closed with aluminium chains and had only two
immigration counters.
30
Passengers at passport control
31
PRESENT
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
129,072
692,745
437%
Civil Aircraft
Movements
6,512
25,592
293%
Cargo & Mail
(Tons)
2,897
11,825
308%
Passenger
Numbers
Jumbo B-747 and Gulf Air VC-10 on the parking apron
Variance
Moreover, by the end of 1973, the year of its
inauguration, seven companies were operating from
From 1st July 1974, Middle
East Airlines (MEA) started
operating Boeing 747 Jumbo
Jets scheduled flights into
Seeb International Airport.
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.
Arriving passengers waiting for their luggage
Front view of Arrivals Terminal
32
Customs officials at Seeb International Airport
Front view of Departures Terminal
33
PRESENT
PRESENT
Seeb International Airport’s renovations and
improvements throughout the seventies were as
follows:
Improvements to the airport infrastructure:
Improvements to essential airport equipment:
ÈÈ A new parking apron was constructed for small
aircraft used for domestic flights around the
Sultanate
ÈÈ Seeb International Airport’s runway was expanded
to 3,584m from the previous length of 3,050m
ÈÈ Installation of an instrument landing system to
allow pilots to use lower approach minimums
during poor weather conditions and handle traffic
efficiently at peak hours
ÈÈ The civil aircraft parking apron was expanded to
accommodate up to nine modern and wide bodied
aircrafts
ÈÈ A new taxiway was built to reduce taxiing time to
and from the terminal apron and runway
ÈÈ Establishment of radio teletype link between
Seeb International Airport and Masirah Island to
exchange meteorological information
In addition to these renovations, major system changes
to the airport operation were made including the
establishment of the National Meteorological Service by
the Directorate General of Civil Aviation with a weather
satellite earth receiving station. A Planning Section
within the same Directorate General was instituted in
order to prepare studies on how best to achieve the
Civil Aviation’s objectives. In the interests of improving
airport safety, a flight briefing service was established to
provide essential aeronautical information to pilots and
a national search and rescue service was set up to ensure
the availability of immediate assistance to aircraft.
Catering services began to supply aircraft with meals
and refreshments, Arabic and foreign publications were
made available to passengers.
ÈÈ Installation of a modernized VHF communications
network linking the control tower with the airport
and fire section vehicles
ÈÈ The installation of floodlights and edge lighting on
all taxiways and aprons
ÈÈ Fire station was re-equipped with the most
sophisticated chemical trucks and rapid
intervention vehicles
ÈÈ Efficient container loaders were acquired to
facilitate loading and unloading with a capability
of loading 20-30 tons per hour
Fire station was re-equipped with latest fire trucks
Meteorological Section
34
Transfer waiting lounge for passengers
Cafeteria at Seeb International Airport
35
PRESENT
PRESENT
In 1975, the Omani Civil Aviation Law No. 50/75
was ratified by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said
which would support and regulate the civil aviation
sector’s activities. The law was decreed in November
and put the Sultanate ahead of all other Gulf countries
in accordance with international requirements. It
was followed by the formulation of manuals and
by-laws organizing various operations such as an
emergency planning manual, in accordance with
ICAO requirements. Oman was also selected by Gulf
Air to be the airline’s country of registration for its
aircraft and crew. In the light of these changes and
updates it became necessary for the Directorate to
create regulatory standards; thus the rules of Oman
Civil Aviation were formulated.
Airside view of Seeb International Airport
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
36
Air Traffic Control Tower at Seeb International Airport
37
PRESENT
PRESENT
Landside view of Seeb International Airport
It was during the 1980s that the airport fully benefited
from all the developments that took place during the
1970s. While this is certainly true, and the numbers
confirm this, the eighties were not devoid of intense
development.
Type of activity
Passenger
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
Movements
Cargo & Mail
(Tons)
The following table exhibits the variance in airport
activity between years 1980 and 1990:
38
39
1980
1990
Variance
692,745
1,444,035
108%
25,592
27,148
6%
11,825
27,167
130%
PRESENT
PRESENT
Architect’s Drawing of Seeb International Airport 1980
40
41
PRESENT
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
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.
The new aircraft catering facility
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-todate and sophisticated navigational
equipment and infrastructure.
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
most luxurious airport restaurant of the time.
The Beluga aircraft parked at Seeb International Airport
Part of the almost doubled in size Departures check-in area
Refurbished restaurant at Seeb International Airport
Customs counters in the new hall
42
43
PRESENT
PRESENT
The new Arrivals Baggage Reclaim Hall
Landside view of Seeb International Airport
Part of the transfer lounge
Immigration Control Counters
44
The 1990s were, much like the 70’s and 80’s before it,
another period of advancement as is the story of Oman’s
airport history, a mark of its continuing evolution.
The passenger numbers increased throughout Oman
(which had reached approximately 1.5 million by 1990
and would shortly after double) was of course both a
cause and consequence of further expansion.
Type of Activity
Passenger
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
Movements
Cargo & Mail
(Tons)
45
1990
2000
Variance
1,444,035
2,721,393
88%
27,148
36,082
33%
27,167
69,696
157%
PRESENT
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
number of aircraft stands to 18.
New Flight Information Display System monitors were installed
Cargo Terminal
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.
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
46
Raytheon radar system replaced Plessey radar system
New Air Traffic Control automation system
47
PRESENT
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
Landside view of Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat International Airport)
Aerial view of Seeb International Airport [Picture courtesy: John Fitzpatrick]
48
Apart from the civil operations at Muscat International
Airport, the airside infrastructure is also used by
the Royal Flight, Royal Air Force of Oman and the
Directorate General of Police Aviation. Each of these
have units located alongside the terminal, are selfcontained with their own road access, terminal and
aircraft apron but share the runway, taxiway, emergency
services and air traffic control.
Between 2000 and 2010 the passenger numbers
through Seeb International Airport (currently Muscat
International Airport) has increased by nearly 111%,
and the airport has been maintained at international
standards and is fully functional to serve the country’s
needs. Consequently, the airport has been enlarged
and has witnessed enhancements to its operations and
equipments.
49
PRESENT
PRESENT
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.
Aerial view of Muscat International Airport
50
51
PRESENT
PRESENT
Direct Destinations Connected to Muscat International Airport
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:
Type of Activity
Passenger
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
Movements
Cargo & Mail
(Tons)
2000
2010
2,721,393 5,751,516
Variance
111%
36,082
67,160
86%
69,696
96,390
38%
Aircraft parked at Muscat International Airport apron
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
Aircraft parked at Muscat International Airport apron
52
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
53
PRESENT
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
54
55
PRESENT
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
56
57
PRESENT
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
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.
New pier connects to the existing Muscat International Airport Departures Hall
58
Coffee shop at the pier
Escalator leading to the ground floor boarding gates
59
PRESENT
PRESENT
The landside Departures hall and hold baggage
screening facility and queuing area were also extended
in this case by an extra 700sqm of floor space, in order
to increase queuing and passenger circulation space.
In addition, the check-in hall was also expanded by
an extra 1,200sqm to provide an additional 20 checkin desks. Muscat International Airport now has a total
of 58 check-in counters and associated queuing and
circulation space; increasing the check-in hall capacity
by 53%.
Other Expansions
In late 2008, the international baggage reclaim hall at
Arrivals was enlarged by 30% to provide increased
passenger circulation space at baggage collection
points. Two of the existing baggage reclaim belts
were replaced with new belts in order to improve the
baggage belts efficiency, whilst the third was extended
by 100% to increase baggage off-loading and passenger
reclaim capacity.
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
Aircraft parking apron at Muscat International Airport
60
Transfer Area
Premium Car Park
61
PRESENT
PRESENT
Operational Developments
including the Boeing 777-300ER and A340-600. This
expansion of the airport’s capabilities has expanded
the mandate of airfield operations as well.
Airfield Operations
Outside the terminal building, additional aircraft
parking stands were constructed in 2007, creating
an additional 6 stands for large aircraft or 8 for
medium sized aircraft. Muscat International Airport
currently has a total of 32 stands. Also, taxiway
width widening work was carried out in order
to accommodate the largest wheel based aircraft
What was initially an airfield manual of 30 pages has
evolved into an aerodrome manual with integrated
safety manual systems (ISMS), which covers the whole
range of airport safety and operations. This includes
the management of wildlife, a mobile and fixed birddeterrent system to keep airfields and surrounding
apron areas free of birds.
International Airport to provide any airport related
information, one in the departures hall and the other
in the duty free area. FIDS was completely manually
operated before the airport was privatized. However,
since then, OAMC has completely automated FIDS,
including the announcement of flight information and
the accessibility of flight information by phone, internet
and text message. Also, the number and quality of
trolleys has increased, with a new lightweight model
being introduced in larger quantities.
Terminal Operations
Terminal operations, now, has a much wider role than
it ever had in terms of interfacing ground handling,
passenger control, managing flight information
display systems (FIDS) and trolley handling among
many other tasks.
Passenger control and porter services were initiated by
Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) at the
check-in areas to facilitate the check-in process. There
are currently two information desks at the Muscat
Currently the number of aircraft stands at Muscat International Airport totals 32
Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS)
62
63
PRESENT
PRESENT
The watch room is sound proof and is equipped with
lighting with varying intensity to aid External Night
Vision. Hotlines are provided to air traffic control,
civil defence, substation and hospitals. The watch
room also monitors the tower radio frequency.
Fire Fighting & Rescue
Muscat International Airport is a category 9 airport,
one of the highest in accordance with the ICAO
international standards for fire fighting and rescue
protection. Its fire services are divided into 3 units:
Operational, Administrative and Coordination.
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.
To meet the current international requirements with
regard to fire fighting and rescue protection, Muscat
International Airport has a fleet of the latest fire
fighting vehicles.
The watch room overlooks the entire airfield, it is
the central point for receiving emergency calls and
mobilization of resources for emergency operation.
Muscat International Airport fire fighting & rescue team
State-of-the-art fire fighting vehicles
64
Three major aviation fuel suppliers at Muscat International Airport
Fuelling of Oman Air Boeing 737-800 at
Aviation fuel suppliers offices at
65
PRESENT
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
66
67
PRESENT
PRESENT
Food & Beverage
Retail
After opening at Muscat International Airport in 2003,
Muscat Duty Free LLC now occupies a total area of
1,700sqm. The largest of its outlets is on the upper floor
in the departures lounge carrying 20,000 products.
Muscat International Airport also has a pharmacy,
a perfume/gift outlet and an outlet for luxurious
accessories for women; all of which are located on the
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
68
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
69
PRESENT
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
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 first class lounge
Plaza Premium Lounge at the Departures Hall
Muscat International Airport’s Plaza Premium
Lounge has two outlets; one in the departures and
one in arrivals. The departures lounge, in addition
to premium class passengers, also admits pay-in
customers. The lounge includes seating for 120 people.
There are 2 shower rooms, male and female restrooms,
a smoking room, children’s play area and a business
centre.
Arrival passengers at Muscat International Airport
can relax and benefit from an unlimited use of the
lounge facilities whilst their visa formalities are being
processed offering fast track immigration services.
Value added services such as baggage collection,
assistance at customs and transportation to their final
destination is offered, also special arrangements for
VIP services are arranged. Facilities at the lounge
includes a business centre, internet access points, a
shower room, TV, reading materials and a selection of
food and beverages.
The Arrivals Plaza Premium Lounge is available to
all passengers regardless of airline or class of travel.
Meet, Greet and Assist services are available for a fee.
Oman Air business class lounge
Oman Air Premium Class Lounge at the Departures Hall
Plaza Premium Meet & Greet Services Lounge at the Arrivals Hall
70
71
PRESENT
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.
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.
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.
Seven money exchange branches operate at Muscat International Airport
Traditional Omani products at Duty Free
72
There are separate prayer rooms for both male & female passengers at
the Departures Hall
Book store at the Departures Hall
Free WiFi hotspots for passenger convenience
Luggage wrapping at the Departures Hall
73
PRESENT
PRESENT
Tourist Information Desk
Muscat International Airport Aerodrome Information
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.
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
Tourist information counter at the Arrivals Hall
Car Rentals counter at the Arrivals Hall
Mobile service counter at the Arrivals Hall
74
Airside view of Muscat International Airport
75
PRESENT
PRESENT
Scheduled Passenger Airlines Operating into Muscat International Airport
Aerial view of Muscat International Airport
As of December 2010
76
77
PRESENT
PRESENT
Air Traffic Statistics
Muscat International Airport-Civil Aircraft Movements
Muscat International Airport-Passenger Numbers
850,000
Year
700,000
692,745
550,000
576,729
529,904
400,000
435,073
333,053
250,000
250,089
100,000
129,072
0
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
1,750,000
1,500,000
1,339,506
1,430,293
1,250,000
1,347,271
1,314,678
1,444,035
1,298,886
1,007,045
884,202
750,000
748,928
500,000
0
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
3,200,000
2,800,000
2,756,045
2,400,000
2,799,922
2,721,393
2,555,483
2,347,948
2,000,000
2,176,260
2,058,699
1,600,000
1,666,549
2,095,549
1,710,246
1,200,000
0
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
6,000,000
5,751,516
5,000,000
4,777,058
4,000,000
4,219,700
4,002,121
3,778,129
3,000,000
2,000,000
4,556,502
3,461,743
2,697,032
2,450,422
2,886,487
1,000,000
0
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
78
2008
2009
2010
129,072
30,000
1975
250,089
1976
333,053
15,000
1977
435,073
10,000
1978
529,904
5,000
576,729
1980
692,745
0
1981
748,928
40,000
1982
884,202
1,007,045
1984
1,186,945
1,314,678
1986
1,430,293
1987
1,347,271
1988
1,298,886
1989
1,339,506
25,000
45,000
1992
1,710,246
1993
2,058,699
1994
2,095,549
1995
2,176,260
1996
2,347,948
2,799,922
2000
2,721,393
2001
2,697,032
2002
2,450,422
2003
2,886,487
2004
3,461,743
2005
3,778,129
2006
4,777,058
2007
4,219,700
2008
4,002,121
2009
4,556,502
2010
5,751,516
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
28,278
27,966
26,854
31,533
28,181
26,893
27,975
26,061
27,148
15,000
1,666,549
1999
6,512
20,000
1991
2,756,045
14,823
32,219
1,444,035
2,555,483
14,264
30,000
1990
1998
25,592
35,000
0
1997
27,582
21,451
1979
1983
28,371
25,000
20,000
1985
1,186,945
1,000,000
1974
Total
Passengers
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
40,000
38,956
35,000
36,883
30,000
31,100
25,000
36,247
35,661
35,548
35,197
36,082
33,900
28,539
20,000
0
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
50,000
40,000
40,297
30,000
35,064
33,509
40,192
2001
2002
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
79
2009
14,264
1976
14,823
1977
21,451
1978
27,582
1979
28,371
1980
25,592
1981
28,278
1982
27,966
1983
26,854
1984
27,975
1985
32,219
1986
31,533
1987
28,181
1988
26,893
1989
26,061
1990
27,148
1991
28,539
1992
31,100
1993
33,900
1994
36,883
1995
36,247
1996
35,661
1997
35,197
1998
35,548
36,082
2001
35,064
67,160
2002
33,509
2003
36,389
2004
40,297
2005
40,192
36,389
2003
1975
38,956
20,000
0
6,512
1999
45,600
45,655
1974
2000
55,330
46,319
Civil Aircraft
Movements
2000
70,000
60,000
Year
2010
2006
46,319
2007
45,655
2008
45,600
2009
55,330
2010
67,160
PRESENT
PRESENT
Salalah Airport 1970 - 1999
Muscat International Airport-Cargo & Mail Movements (in tons)
15,000
12,500
13,973
12,211
10,000
12,270
11,765
11,825
7,500
7,731
5,000
2,500
0
2,897
1974
1975
1976
1977
1978
1979
1980
30,000
27,167
25,000
24,616
20,000
19,956
19,220
15,000
10,000
15,088
23,307
22,888
20,016
17,059
12,225
5,000
0
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
70,000
69,696
60,000
63,304
50,000
53,948
40,000
30,000
37,542
32,771
28,708
39,501
44,457
46,301
34,707
20,000
0
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
90,000
0
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
80
2009
12,211
1977
13,973
1978
12,270
1979
11,765
1980
11,825
1981
12,225
1982
15,088
1983
17,059
1984
19,220
1985
24,616
1986
22,888
1987
19,956
1988
20,016
1989
23,307
1990
27,167
1991
32,771
1992
28,708
1993
34,707
1994
37,542
1995
39,501
1996
44,457
1997
46,301
1998
53,948
2001
74,183
2002
48,957
2003
50,095
2004
68,315
2005
76,038
2006
99,582
2007
77,308
2008
58,486
2009
64,419
2010
96,390
50,000
50,095
1976
96,390
58,486
48,957
7,731
69,696
64,419
68,315
1975
63,304
74,183
60,000
2,897
1999
77,308
76,038
1974
2000
80,000
70,000
Cargo and Mail
Movements
2000
100,000
99,582
Year
2010
View of Salalah Airport in 1975
Salalah Civil Aviation was born at the beginning of
the Renaissance in 1970, shortly after that the Faulkner
27 planes moved various goods into the city. In
accordance with His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s
goals to modernize Oman and in order to connect
Oman’s north to its south and transport people,
cargo and mail to and from the capital, Joannou &
Paraskevaides (Overseas) Ltd. was appointed in 1975
to build an airport in Salalah. The Omani government
then signed a contract with Pan Am Company, USA
which would take over operation and technical
supervision of the new airport as well as train Omani
manpower to work there. Oman Aviation Services took
charge of managing and operating Salalah Airport’s
aviation services including aircraft maintenance, cargo
handling and supply for airport facilities.
The airport was initially used as a military base and
was quite small, although it was on a par with most
modern international airports. It had no arrivals hall
and its departures hall could accommodate only a
few passengers. It had a fire and rescue building, a
maintenance building and a cargo terminal. Its runway
length was 2,286m (later extended to 3,342m in 1985). It
had three parking aprons, a lighting system according
to Category II and fire fighting equipment at Category
8 ICAO standards. It was linked to Seeb International
Airport through VHF and HF radio frequencies.
81
PRESENT
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.
Type of Activity
Passenger
Numbers
Civil Aircraft
Movements
Cargo & Mail
(Tons)
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
Airport’s cargo facilities and fire services and the
extension of its runway (to 3,342m), its parking apron
and part of its taxiway.
Air Traffic Control Tower at Salalah Airport
1990
2000
85,234
182,823
2,324
2,385
3%
562
1,394
148%
implemented and wind instruments near the runway
were installed to aid greater touchdown accuracy. In
1981, Salalah Airport began operating its fire, Air Traffic
Control (ATC), meteorology, communications and
transportation services 24 hours a day.
Variance
115%
During the 1990s, radios were replaced at the fire station
and a new computer network system was installed
linking various systems throughout the airport. A new
radar building to complement the radar system from
Raytheon was built. Finally, during this period Salalah
Airport’s Air Traffic Control team achieved a 100%
omanization rate.
Salalah Airport’s equipment was also upgraded during
this period. A Runway Visual Range System was
Type of Activity
1980
1990
45,628
85,234
87%
Civil Aircraft
Movements
2,620
2,324
-11%
Cargo & Mail
(Tons)
506
562
11%
Passenger
Numbers
Variance
Salalah Airport
Cargo flight began operating to Salalah in 1977. Seen here is an Antonov 124
Airside view of Salalah Airport
82
83
PRESENT
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
Type of Activity
2000
2010
182,823
455,297
149%
Civil Aircraft
Movements
2,385
5,085
113%
Cargo & Mail
(Tons)
1,394
1,283
-8%
Passenger
Numbers
Variance
Road entrance leading to Salalah Airport
84
85
PRESENT
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.
Landside view of Salalah Airport
Welcome sign at Salalah Airport
86
87
PRESENT
PRESENT
Structural Developments
Operational Developments
was also expanded along with an increase in check-in
counters from six to ten and additional immigration
counters. The VIP lounge at Salalah Airport was
renovated for a more luxurious experience.
The main facet of the structural expansion plan was an
enlarged international arrivals hall which included an
additional baggage reclaim conveyor belt to provide
separate services for domestic and international
passengers, more immigration counters, queuing space
and additional restroom facilities. The departures hall
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
Information Service System (ATIS) was also installed
for easy access of the weather data.
On the apron, the airport is able to park the largest
aircraft in the aviation industry, the Airbus A380. It
has 6 parking bays with capacity to hold some of the
widest aircraft and also has a helipad.
Air Traffic Control Tower at Salalah Airport
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.
Salalah Airport Departures check-in hall
Salalah Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall
Salalah Airport boarding gate waiting area
88
Ground Handling at Salalah Airport
Salalah Airport fire fighting & rescue facilities
89
PRESENT
PRESENT
Commercial Developments
opened booths at Salalah Airport where customers
can buy telecom related services. Private taxis are
available for customer use outside the arrivals hall. A
money exchange facility also opened in 2004. Finally,
the airport has also made available a desk for incoming
tourists seeking advice on popular attractions and
areas to visit.
Salalah Airport’s commercial facilities have also
improved greatly between 2000 and 2010 with the
opening of a restaurant, coffee shop and gift shop.
Moreover, today nine car rental companies have
branches at Salalah Airport, the first of which opened
in 2002. Mobile telephone service providers have
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.
Car Rental counters at Salalah Airport
Mobile telephone service counter at Salalah Airport
Gift shop at Salalah Airport
90
Airside view of Salalah Airport
91
PRESENT
PRESENT
Salalah Airport-Passenger Numbers
Salalah Airport-Civil Aircraft Movements
50,000
Year
45,000
1978
45,628
40,000
38,654
35,000
38,417
Total
Passengers
1979
38,417
1980
45,628
1981
55,741
0
1978
1979
1980
1982
57,667
1983
57,067
1984
64,421
100,000
1985
71,838
90,000
1986
77,868
80,000
81,764
77,868
70,000
71,838
60,000
85,234
68,785
64,421
55,741
1981
57,667
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
176,493
182,249
181,417
182,823
140,000
133,238
147,803
121,659
98,086
80,928
20,000
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
600,000
500,000
400,000
407,788
300,000
0
426,503
455,297
337,679
180,141
2001
187,281
2002
75,283
81,764
1990
85,234
1991
80,928
184,285
2003
210,163
2004
251,808
2005
1992
98,086
1993
121,659
1994
133,238
1995
147,803
1996
161,911
1997
176,493
1998
182,249
1999
181,417
2000
182,823
2001
180,141
2,000
1,000
0
1978
1979
1980
4000
3,500
3,540
3,000
2,500
3,231
2,893
2,962
3,132
2,835
2,542
2,444
2,000
2002
187,281
2003
184,285
2004
2,324
2,134
2007
92
2008
2009
2010
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
251,808
2006
288,700
337,679
3,600
426,503
2010
455,297
1990
3,840
3,200
2,800
2,861
2,756
2,400
2,560
2,448
2,000
2,607
2,508
2,148
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
2,261
2,385
1999
2000
6,000
5,000
5,054
4,000
4,215
3,000
3,015
2,794
2,000
4,079
5,085
4,248
3,484
2,813
2,145
407,788
2009
1989
4,000
210,163
2005
2008
2006
0
0
2007
288,700
200,000
100,000
2,620
2,380
Civil Aircraft
Movements
1978
3,362
1979
2,380
1980
2,620
1981
2,893
1982
2,962
1983
2,835
1984
3,231
1985
3,540
1986
3,132
1987
2,542
1988
2,444
1989
2,134
1990
2,324
1991
2,148
1992
2,448
1993
2,756
1994
2,861
1995
2,560
1996
2,607
1997
3,840
1998
2,508
1999
2,261
2000
2,385
2001
2,145
2002
2,794
2003
2,813
2004
3,015
2005
3,484
2006
4,215
2007
4,079
2008
4,248
2009
5,054
2010
5,085
1,500
161,911
0
1988
68,785
57,067
160,000
100,000
1987
1989
75,283
200,000
60,000
2,500
Year
1,500
25,000
0
3,362
3,000
38,654
30,000
50,000
3,500
1,000
0
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
93
2008
2009
2010
PRESENT
PRESENT
Salalah Airport-Cargo & Mail Movements (in tons)
1,200
Year
1,000
800
793
600
200
256
0
1978
1979
1980
1,200
1,000
1,086
800
600
Cargo and Mail
Movements
1978
256
1979
793
1980
506
1981
704
1982
545
1983
522
1984
1,086
1985
656
1986
603
1987
500
1988
468
1989
407
1990
562
506
400
704
400
656
545
603
522
500
468
562
407
1981
1982
1983
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
1989
1990
1,500
1,300
1,394
1,100
1,025
900
869
700
727
658
697
500
0
1991
1992
1993
1994
710
679
538
538
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2,500
2,200
1,900
2,183
1,917
1,600
1,670
1,300
1,441
1,267
1,000
0
2001
2002
2003
2004
1,234
2005
1,284
2006
1,110
1,129
2007
2008
94
2009
1,283
2010
The airports are fully functional as all three are able
to provide rescue and fire fighting service at Category
7 and are equipped with an Airfield Ground Lighting
system. PDO’s airports are equipped with a modern
terminal building and essential facilities.
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO)
Airports
Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is the foremost
exploration and production company in Oman. It
accounts for more than 70% of the country’s crudeoil production and nearly all of its natural-gas
supply. PDO operates 3 airports in Oman, Marmul,
Fahud and Qarn Alam. For over 30 years Petroleum
Development Oman used the unpaved runways
around its concession areas in order to transport
staff and contract employees to its oilfields. Recently
however, the company modernised three airports at
its main oilfields: Marmul, Fahud and Qarn Alam.
The airports, which meet international and national
Overall operation is split between PDO and contracted
organizations. The company handles its own Flight
Information Services while Oman Air executes ground
handling and Shell Marketing Oman performs aircraft
refuelling. At least two flights, operated by Oman Air
on behalf of PDO, serve each location daily. As the use
of the airports increased with business demand over
the past two years, the B737 aircraft was introduced to
the airports, replacing the turbo prop aircraft in order
to transport staff more efficiently.
PDO Aerodrome Information
1991
658
Airport Name
Length / Width
1992
869
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Code OOMX
OOFD
OOGB
1993
727
International Air Transport Association (IATA) Code
FAU
RNM
1994
697
1995
538
1996
538
1997
679
1998
710
1999
1,025
2000
1,394
2001
2,183
2002
1,917
2003
1,670
2004
1,267
2005
1,234
2006
1,441
2007
1,110
2008
200
0
standards, were modernised and certified for use by
the Civil Aviation Affairs in 2008.
Other Airports in Oman
Marmul
2,561m x 45m
OMM
Occidental Oman Airport (OXY)
Fahud
2,560m x 45m
Qarn Alam
2,560m X 45m
The airport has a compacted sand and gravel runway
and a concrete stand for one aircraft. Flight operations
are restricted to daytime operations only as landing is
visual based. Currently, fuel facilities are not available
in this airport. The airport provides fire fighting and
rescue category 4 level. The company handles an
‘essential information system’ at the airport while
Oman Air manages the ground handling. The terminal
building is small and can accommodate a maximum of
45 passengers.
Occidental Oman (OXY) is the second largest oil
producer in Oman, having a concession agreement
for oil production with the Government. OXY’s Oman
operations are concentrated at the giant Mukhaizna oil
field in south-central Oman, the Safah field in northern
Oman, and adjacent areas. OXY operates an airport
in Mukhaizna for transporting their staff and contract
employees to its oilfields.
OXY Aerodrome Information
1,129
Airport Name
Runway Length / Width
Mukhaizna
2,300m x 46m
2009
1,284
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Code
OOMK
2010
1,283
International Air Transport Association (IATA) Code
UKH
95
PRESENT
PDO Airports’ runways (Marmul & Qarn Alam)
PDO Airport in Marmul
96
97
FUTURE
FUTURE
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - aerial view
Site description of new Muscat International Airport project
98
Just as the previous decades of Oman’s airport history
experienced tremendous increases in passenger and
flight numbers, the future changes are certain to be
significant. The number of airlines operating from
the airport is increasing, the existing airlines are
adding flights through and to Muscat International
Airport and passengers on business and leisure trips
are multiplying. Oman Air, the national carrier, is
increasing both its fleet and number of destinations.
Oman’s tourism industry has become a target for
diversifying the national economy, thus visitors
are expected to grow exponentially in numbers. To
compliment these developments the Sultanate’s
infrastructure is under focus for further development.
All of these factors have contributed towards the need
for additional and bigger airports, a challenge the
government is currently pursuing with vigour.
In order to accommodate the booming tourism sector,
Oman’s national carrier’s expansion and further
developments of the Sultanate’s infrastructure, new
airport projects for both Muscat International Airport
and Salalah Airports are currently underway and due
for completion in the coming years.
99
FUTURE
FUTURE
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
view from Southeast
100
101
FUTURE
FUTURE
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
102
103
FUTURE
FUTURE
Muscat International Airport Satellite View
As of 15th January 2011
104
105
FUTURE
FUTURE
Muscat International Airport Master Plan
As of October 2010
106
107
FUTURE
FUTURE
Contracts for Muscat International Airport
COWI, in a joint venture with Larsen Architects and
Copenhagen Airports, are principal consultants on the
expansion of Muscat International Airport in Oman.
As principal consultant, COWI is heading up the
joint venture that will carry out the large-scale airport
project from planning and designing to supervision
of the building works. The assignment comprises
runways, approach roads, terminals, baggage handling
systems, control tower and all the other buildings and
installations needed in a modern airport. The aim is to
design a state-of-the-art airport offering passengers a
supreme degree of comfort and safety.
adpi, the subsidiary of Aeroports de Paris, is the
project management consultant for the development of
Muscat International Airport. adpi is providing project
management consulting service and supervision of
the engineering phase, overview of tender allocations,
supervision of building phases and supervision of
preparation for startup.
The project has been divided into various main contracts
and standard national contracts. As of December 2010,
the contracts mentioned below have been awarded and
the rest of the contracts are at various stages of award.
Main and Standard National Contracts for the New Muscat International Airport
Contracts
Description
Other Contracts Awarded for the New Muscat International Airport
Contract Awarded to*
Project
Project Management Consulting Service
Management
Principal
Principal Consultant for Design and Supervision
Consultant
Civil Works - new Runway, Taxiway, Apron, landside
MC1
development. Access road to terminal
Air Traffic Control (ATC), Air Traffic Management (ATM), Data
MC2
Centre (DC2), Contingency & Training Building (C&T), Crash,
Fire & Rescue (CFR)
COWI - Larsen Joint Venture
Consolidated Contractors
Company - TAV Joint Venture
Carillion Alawi
MC3
Passenger Terminal Building (PTB)
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
MC12
Detail Design and Construction of Cargo and Maintenance,
Repair and Over-haul Facilities
To be awarded
MC13
Detail Design and Construction of Catering Facilities
To be awarded
108
Contract Description
Contract Awarded to
adpi
Bechtel-ENKA-Bahwan
Engineering Company - Joint
Venture
MC-Main Contract
SNC-Standard National Contract
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - Southeast view
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
Construction of rock fill for new runway and taxiway
Galfar Engineering and
Contracting
Relocation of water pipe lines and security fences
Al Matar Company
Design and Construction Supervision services for Maintenance, Repair and
Overhaul Hangars and Cargo facilities
Ghafari Associates LLC
Design and Construction Supervision for In-Flight catering facilities
Al-Hatmy Engineering
*As of December 2010
109
FUTURE
FUTURE
New Muscat International Airport Project Main Features
Artist Impressions of New Muscat International Airport
Departures Gates at South pier
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
aerial view of South pier and West pier
ÈÈ Latest IT technology (36 systems in total)
110
Check-in Hall with 86 check-in counters and 20 self service check-in kiosks
111
FUTURE
FUTURE
Automated Passenger Mover at Arrivals level
Food Court
International Departure lounge
Arrivals Hall with 8 international and 2 domestic arrival carousels. The Transfer area will have 24 check-in counters
112
113
FUTURE
FUTURE
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
260,000 tons per year
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - shaded car park with
8,000 parking spaces in both multi storey and surface parking
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
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
114
115
FUTURE
FUTURE
Airside Development of New Muscat International Airport
ÈÈ A new 4,000m x 60m runway is to be constructed
in the northern part of the airport site and
associated taxiways. The existing runway will
be renovated and extended to 4,000m x 60m and
will be Code F compliant, after opening of the
new runway
ÈÈ A new fire station dedicated to the northern
runway is to be created (the existing one will be
dedicated to the southern runway), along with a
new sea rescue station
ÈÈ New Deportees Building with landside/airside
access
ÈÈ Fuel hydrant system for all parking stands
(contact and remote)
ÈÈ New Aircraft Maintenance Facilities with hangar
capacity for 2 wide body + 2 narrow body aircraft
ÈÈ Precision Approach Runway CAT II and
Meteorological Equipments
ÈÈ New Air Traffic Management Buildings
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - View of North Pier end
Artist impression of new Muscat International Airport - West pier & Air Traffic Control Tower. The height of the ATC tower will be 97m
116
117
FUTURE
FUTURE
Artist Impression of New Muscat International Airport
Traffic concourse and Passenger Terminal Building detail view from South West
Exterior view of Centre West Pier end and ATC Tower
Air Traffic Control Tower with bridge house. It will have 29 passenger boarding bridges
118
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
4,000 x 60m
Boarding Bridges / Contact Stands
29
Bus Boarding Lounges
10
Remote Aircraft Stands
30
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
119
FUTURE
FUTURE
View from Southwest
120
121
FUTURE
FUTURE
Passenger Terminal Building - front view
Passenger Terminal Building - rear view
122
123
FUTURE
FUTURE
Aerial view of entrance forecourt - PTB
124
125
FUTURE
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
126
127
FUTURE
FUTURE
Salalah Airport Master Plan
As of October 2010
128
129
FUTURE
FUTURE
Contracts for Salalah Airport
New Salalah Airport General Features
COWI, in a joint venture with Larsen Architects and
Copenhagen Airports, are principal consultants on the
expansion of Salalah Airport in Oman. As principal
consultant, COWI is heading up the joint venture
that will carry out the large-scale airport project from
planning and designing to supervision of the building
works. The assignment comprises runways, approach
roads, terminals, baggage handling systems, control
tower and all the other buildings and installations
needed in a modern airport. The aim is to design a
state-of-the-art airport offering passengers a supreme
degree of comfort and safety.
adpi, the subsidiary of Aeroports de Paris, is the
project management consultant for the development of
Salalah Airport. adpi is providing project management
consulting service and supervision of the engineering
phase, overview of tender allocations, supervision of
building phases and supervision of preparation for
startup.
The project has been divided into various main contracts
and standard national contracts. As of December 2010,
the contracts mentioned below have been awarded and
the rest of the contracts are at various stages of award.
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
Main and Standard National Contracts for the New Salalah Airport
Contracts
Description
Project
Management
Principal
Principal Consultant for Design and Supervision
Consultant
ÈÈ 12 aircraft parking stands including 8 contact stands
Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - Check-in Hall
adpi
COWI - Larsen Joint Venture
MC5
Construction of new Terminal Building, new runway and other
related work
Galfar Engineering &
Contracting and Larsen &
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
SNC9
Indra
SNC10
Thales
SNC11
To be awarded
MC12
Detail Design and Construction of Cargo and Maintenance,
Repair and Overhaul Facilities
To be awarded
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
Overhaul Hangars and Cargo facilities
Ghafari Associates LLC
Design and Construction Supervision of In-Flight catering facilities
Al-Hatmy Engineering
130
Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - Check-in counters with 24 check-in counters and 4 self service check-in kiosks
131
FUTURE
FUTURE
Landside Development of
New Salalah Airport
Artist Impressions 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
Arrivals Hall
Airport Baggage Reclaim Hall
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
Immigration counters
132
ÈÈ Aircraft Hangar capacity for 1 wide body aircraft
Artist impression of new Salalah Airport - Gate Lounge
133
FUTURE
FUTURE
Regional Airports
Artist Impression of New Salalah Airport
Sohar
Adam
Ras Al Hadd
Ad Duqm
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
65,638 sqm
1957
57m
Existing runway
Will become a parallel taxiway
New runway Specifications
4,000m x 60m
Boarding Bridges / Contact Stands
8
Remote Aircraft Stands
12
Check-In Counters
24
4
Emigration Counters - Departures
10
Immigration Counters – Arrivals
20
Arrivals Carousels
2 International + 1 Domestic
Transfer Counters
4
100,000 tons per annum
1,000 meals per day
Aircraft Hangar Capacity
1 wide body
134
Along with major expansions to Muscat International
Airport and Salalah Airport, the government is building
four new airports linking other regions with Muscat
as part of a larger plan to develop Oman’s ability to
meet the increasing number of tourists and business
travellers as well as supporting the local communities.
The new airports will be in Sohar, Ras Al Hadd,
Ad Duqm and Adam. The Adam airport is nearly
complete with a service road, access road, runway
and apron. All of the new airports will be managed
and operated post-construction by Oman Airports
Management Company.
Phase 2 involves the construction of the runway and
installation of aircraft landing instruments;
Phase 3 includes the construction of the Passenger
Terminal Building.
The regional airports will be built as per international
requirements and designed to World Class A standards.
The runways are 4,000 metres in length and 60 metres
wide and will be equipped with precision approach
runway CAT I and provision for CAT II. The runways
will be designed and built to ‘Code F’ standards of
the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
and will be capable of accommodating the largest
commercial aircraft in the world, the Airbus A380.
All four regional airports are being constructed in
three phases:
Each regional airport will have a uniquely designed
air traffic control tower, a radar and a meteorological
station.
Phase 1 includes civil works entailing the provision of
utilities, fencing and road access to the airport site;
135
FUTURE
FUTURE
Adam Airport, the smallest of these projects and the first in the interior region is situated at a site 30km from Adam town.
Adam Airport
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
8,130 sqm
225
25m
4,000 x 60m
Aircraft Stands
6
Check-In Counters
5
Self service check-in kiosk
1
Arrivals Carousels
1
350 meals per day
Contracts for Adam Airport
Contracts
Description
Project Management
adpi
Principal Consultant
Design and Supervision of Civil works, Runway
and Terminal building
Gulf Engineering Joint venture with Pryde
Schropp Mc Comb Inc.
Package 1
Civil works entailing the provision of utilities,
fencing and road access to the airport site
Package 2
Construction of the runway and installation of
aircraft landing instruments
Package 3
Construction of a Commercial Passenger
Terminal Building
Strabag Oman
To be awarded
Artist impression of Adam Airport
Standard National Contracts for Adam Airport
Contracts
Description
SNC9
Indra
SNC10
Thales
136
137
FUTURE
FUTURE
Ad Duqm Airport is currently being built as part
of a larger plan to set up a modern seaport in the
south east of Oman. Ad Duqm is a site of potentially
substantial investment and industrial development
related to the oil shipping industry with a dry dock
being built. The new airport is primarily expected to
handle business and traffic but may also become part
of the tourism industry.
Ad Duqm Airport
The new Ad Duqm Airport will serve as a gateway
into a region with significant economic, industrial
and commercial potential. Besides providing business
investors, company executives and government
officials with a speedy and convenient mode of
transport, the airport also has the potential to open up
Ad Duqm to tourism related investment. The coastal
city of Ad Duqm is planned to be Oman’s next major
industrial and shipping hub.
Ad Duqm Airport Facts
Description
Facts
13,270 sqm
300
36m
4,000 x 60m
Aircraft Stands
4
Check-In Counters
12
4
Arrivals Carousels
1
50,000 Tons per annum
700 meals per day
Contracts for Ad Duqm Airport
Contracts
Project Management
(Design)
(Supervision)
Runway, Taxiway, Access road, Terminal
building and other facilities
Package 1
Package 2
Artist impression of Ad Duqm Airport
Description
Package 3
Terminal Building
adpi
Parsons International & Company
Ibn Khaldun Almadaen Engineering
Consultants
Desert Line Projects LLC
Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction
Co., Ltd
To Be Awarded
Standard National Contracts for Ad Duqm Airport
Contracts
Description
SNC9
Indra
SNC10
Thales
SNC11
To be awarded
138
139
FUTURE
FUTURE
Ras Al Hadd Airport, located near the town Sur in
the Sharqiya region aims to offer tourists the chance
to avoid long road commutes from Muscat and is part
of a larger plan for eco-tourism integrated projects
such as the one related to the endangered Green Back
turtles.
Ras Al Hadd Airport
observed in their natural habitat and this attracts
thousands of visitors every year. The airport will
compliment the development of a number of ecotourist resorts along Oman’s eastern coast.
A concentrated effort exists to develop the area in
a manner consistent with luxury and eco-tourism
which will attract selective tourists who have a
specific interest in eco-tourism to Oman.
The beaches at Ras Al Jinz are home to some of the
rarest turtles in the world. These turtles may be
Ras Al Hadd Airport Facts
Description
Facts
8,130 sqm
225
24m
4,000 x 60m
Aircraft Stands
6
Check-In Counters
19
4
Arrivals Carousels
1
700 meals per day
Contracts for Ras Al Hadd Airport
Contracts
Descriptions
Project Management
adpi
Gulf Engineering Joint venture with Pryde
Schropp Mc Comb Inc.
Package 1
Desert Line Projects
Package 2
Galfar Engineering & Contracting
Package 3
Terminal Building
To be Awarded
Artist impression of Ras Al Hadd Airport
Standard National Contracts for Ras Al Hadd Airport
Contracts
Description
SNC9
Indra
SNC10
Thales
140
141
FUTURE
FUTURE
Sohar Airport, about 10km northwest of Sohar will help
avoid the 2 hour long drive from either Muscat or Dubai.
Sohar and the wider Batinah region have in recent years
attracted industrial and commercial infrastructure
investments. Moreover, cargo to Sohar is expected to
increase in volume due to expected congestion at Sultan
Qaboos Port in Muscat. The airport will also serve as
a new gateway for passenger, cargo and courier traffic
in northern Oman and a domestic and emergency
alternative to Muscat International Airport.
Sohar Airport
The airport will add to a modern multimodal transport
network that will fuel further economic growth in the
Batinah region. It is being built within the proximity
of the major commercial, industrial and economic
centres of Sohar including the Port of Sohar Special
Economic Zone and will compliment the future plans
for a major expressway and rail network which will
underpin the port city’s eventual transformation into
a major industrial and economic hub on the Batinah
coast.
Sohar Airport Facts
Description
Facts
Aircraft Stands
Check-In Counters
Arrivals Carousels
9,020 sqm
300
30m
4,000 x 60m
4
17
4
1
50,000 Tons per annum
350 meals per day
Contracts for Sohar Airport
Contracts
Artist impression of Sohar Airport
Descriptions
Project Management
adpi
Hamza Associates
Package 1
Strabag Oman
Package 2
Strabag Oman
Package 3
Terminal Building
To be Awarded
Standard National Contracts for Sohar Airport
Contracts
Description
SNC9
Indra
SNC10
Thales
142
143
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.
144
145
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
continuous flight information display updates. Airside
airfield management includes runway and apron
management and fire fighting services to handle
accidents or emergencies if they occur.
Oman Airports Management Company S.A.O.C
(OAMC) is a closed joint stock company owned by
the Government of the Sultanate of Oman. OAMC
is responsible for the management and operation of
Muscat International and Salalah Airports and for the
future new airports of Sohar, Adam, Ad Duqm and
Ras Al Hadd.
The Readiness department represents the company on
the new airport development projects will ensure that
OAMC is fully prepared to operate all the new airports.
The infrastructure of the airports such as the terminal
buildings, cargo building, runway, apron, airport
car parking is directly under OAMC’s management.
The company has eight departments, namely; Safety
Compliance and Maintenance, Operations, Readiness,
Finance & Information Technology, Human Resources,
Commercial, Marketing and an independently
functioning department at Salalah Airport which
covers the maintenance, operation and fire services
at Salalah Airport. Each of these departments handle
numerous tasks and report directly to the CEO. The
CEO reports to the Chairman of the Board of Directors
who has an independent unit comprising of the
Chairman’s office and internal audit.
The Finance & Information Technology department's
main function is managing accounting, financial
planning, business plans, budgets, management
information system and income tax issues, Information
Technology, cash management, treasury functions,
investments, banking relations and risk management
including insurance.
The HR department's core function is to manage
various tasks pertaining to Human Resources such as
manpower planning and resources, remuneration and
benefits, learning and staff development, policy and
procedures, recruitment and general administration.
All these functions are necessary to ensure the smooth
operation of the Airport.
The Fire Station at Muscat International Airport
New lightweight trolleys
146
International Airport (formerly Seeb International
Airport) and to develop commercial and retailing
facilities, airline route development and provide
airport management expertise. During this time
Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC)
was formed, the shareholding of the company was
BAA, Suhail Bahwan Group, ABB Equity Ventures,
the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and
Oman Aviation Services. However, in 2004 Oman’s
government resumed the management and operation
of the airports after it and BAA could not reach a
financial agreement for the new terminal. OAMC
was maintained as a private company with a change
in the shareholding of the company to government
ownership.
The Commercial department is responsible for
maximizing the non-aeronautical revenues, which
includes ground handling, retail, food and beverage
and other ‘passenger experience’ enhancing offers. At
the same time, Commercial strives to continuously
improve the overall offer and provide an international
experience through facilities and services operated
by brand leaders at Muscat International & Salalah
Airports.
The Marketing department’s main function is
to attract new airlines to start air services and to
encourage existing airlines to increase flights. Other
functions of the department include airline relations,
website management, airport traffic statistics, media,
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)
147
Ministry of
Transport & Communications
Civil Aviation Affairs
4. Department of Forecasting and Observing Practices
9. Air Transport Department
13. ‫‏‬Projects Department
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
weather forecasts covering all Omani coasts.
The Air Transport department is responsible for
securing air traffic rights for the designated airlines
of the Sultanate of Oman and to increase air traffic
movements with other countries through negotiations
with relevant authorities and conclude agreements.
The department also issues permits for overflying and
landing aircrafts for commercial scheduled and charter
airlines. The department also compiles statistics for
passenger, cargo, aircraft and mail movements for all
the airports in the Sultanate of Oman.
‫ ‏‬his department prepares the development plans for
T
the airports, oversees the implementation of Civil
Aviation Affairs' projects and coordinates with other
departments to set up the five-year plan for different
projects and prepares the estimated costs.
5. Department of Aviation Systems and Standards
This department proposes and supervises the
amendment to the Civil Aviation Law in the Sultanate
in coordination with the other concerned authorities.
Also, it considers recommendations submitted by
ICAO regarding the Annex’s whether conforming to
or contradicting the Sultanate’s Civil Aviation Law.
Civil Aviation Affairs functions under the Ministry
of Transport and Communications. It comprises of 13
departments.
1. Flight Safety Department
This department is responsible for implementation of
civil aviation laws, standards and Annex’s pertaining
to the International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) applicable to air operators and the accredited
maintenance establishments. This department also
approves pilots’ training schools, aircraft maintenance
training centres and aircraft maintenance companies.
It also prepares air operator's certificate, approval of air
operation, aircraft registration, aircraft airworthiness
certificate and radio station installation certificates for
aircraft registered in the Sultanate of Oman.
6. Department of Air Navigation Safety
2. Airports Safety Department
This department provides air traffic control services
within the parametres of Muscat Flight Information
Region through control towers, approach radar and
flight information region. It also assumes the planning
and amendment of air paths in Oman in order to
ensure compatibility with international standards
through utilizing modern air navigation technologies.
This department ensures the standards and procedures
of air traffic control, air navigation and meteorology,
according to the standards of ICAO, WMO and Civil
Aviation Systems of Oman. The department ensures
that all air traffic control staff avail licenses relevant
to the Civil Aviation Law and ICAO Annex’s, also it
controls and inspects Air Traffic Control & Meteorology
Units and Aviation Information Systems.
7. Department of Air Traffic Services
This department issues licenses for airports, aviation
training colleges, institutes, prepares and executes
programs related to the Sultanate’s airports safety,
supervision of airports' operators and ensure that the
airport management is operated in accordance with
ICAO and national standards & regulations.
3. Department of Operations and Technical Services
8. Department of Air Navigation
This department takes responsibility for improving
and developing meteorology systems and devises,
improving and developing systems, equipment
and networks according to technical standard
specifications issued by World Meteorological
Organization (WMO) and ICAO for different stations
and to receive satellite images and data pertaining to
meteorology.
This department is dedicated to operating and
maintaining the systems of navigation ancillaries,
reconnaissance equipment and the land/air
communications systems that aid air movements in
the vicinity of Muscat International Airport, other
areas in the Sultanate and other regional airports. The
department also operates and maintains air traffic
control systems.
148
It is also responsible for setting up studies and plans
for the perceptions about the Sultanate’s airports and
their future expansion. It prepares the documents,
specifications and conditions of tenders in order to
appoint consultants and contractors. The department
follows the implementation of projects pertaining to
structural and contractual terms to ensure the projects
are implemented in the specified period and required
quality within the estimated costs. The department
also maintains the sites belonging to Civil Aviation
Affairs.
10. Department of Salalah Airport
This department consists of several sections,
including the Department of the Air Traffic
Management, Department of Communications and
Navigation, Department of Meteorology, where the
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
149
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.
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.
Airport security is also carried out on passengers,
baggage and cargo to ensure that all restricted items
which might endanger civil aviation are prohibited
from entering the airport and the aircraft.
Royal Oman Police (ROP)
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) responsibility is to
maintain public order, general security, accepted
standards of behaviour, protection of human life,
money, moral values and honour. They are constantly
vigilant to prevent the acts of crime while apprehending
those who commit them and provide tranquility and
peace of mind in all aspects. The responsibility of ROP
as the Directorate General of Airport Security includes
the following three main areas, Security, Customs,
Passport and Residence.
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 also controls vehicle traffic in front of the
terminal building to ensure the smooth embarking
and disembarking of passengers and their luggage
from their vehicles.
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.
Airport Customs
The ROP is represented through the Directorate General
of Customs to supervise customs and security control
pertaining to imports and exports and collecting the
stipulated customs fees. They also combat smuggling
by preventing entry of restricted commodities and
goods in accordance with the rules and regulations.
Airport Security
In order to ensure airport security, the ROP is
represented by the Directorate General of Airport
Security to secure and guard all entrance and exit
points of the terminal building, airside apron area and
boundaries of the airport. They also ensure that the
operational areas which are vital and sensitive are well
protected.
E-gates at Muscat International Airport
In order to keep up with rapid improvements that the
world is witnessing in the fields of modern technology,
the Directorate General of Customs has automated
the customs procedures in all customs points at the
arrivals and departures halls in the terminal building
and the cargo complex.
Departures security check at Muscat International Airport
150
Passport and Residence Control at Muscat International Airport
151
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
during their journey. The company uses the latest
world tracing system to locate lost items of luggage
and maintains an online website service for passengers
to monitor the location of their bags. The company
also performs all ramp related services. This includes
full ramp servicing, including marshalling, push
back, passenger stair operations, aircraft cleaning,
loading of baggage, cargo and mail onto the aircraft.
It is also responsible for the bussing operation which
moves passengers between the aircraft and terminal
buildings and for performing the weight and balance
and inventory control functions which are paramount
to safe aircraft handling and despatch.
Oman’s national airline commenced international
operations in 1993 and has already grown rapidly to
become one of the world’s leading airlines during this
short period. In 2009, Oman Air took delivery of the
first of its fleet of state-of-the-art wide bodied A330
aircraft and became the first to offer mobile phone and
WiFi services for its passengers. As of December 2010,
Oman Air flies to 41 destinations in 22 countries with
a fleet of 23 aircraft. Muscat International Airport is
the home base of Oman Air and the central hub for
its continually expanding operations. Oman Air is
the sole company at Muscat International & Salalah
Airports offering ground handling, engineering
support, catering and cargo services.
Engineering
Oman Air Ground Handling
Third Party and Technical Support Department under
the Oman Air Engineering Department provides
Technical Ground Handling services to all wide and
narrow body aircraft at Muscat International Airport,
maintaining the highest safety standards and practices,
the department is an internationally approved
organization and has a fully qualified strength of
licensed engineers and well experienced technicians,
working in shifts around the clock.
Oman Air’s ground handling division provides
full aircraft handling for both passenger and ramp
services to both Oman Air and all third party customer
airlines. The passenger service function looks after
all aspects of passenger handling. This includes the
exclusive handling of VIPs, First and Business Class
passengers, as well as those travelling in Economy
Class. Additional services are provided to those
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
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
mail and a separate storage for valuable cargo.
Oman Air catering service at Muscat International Airport
Aircraft stands at Muscat International Airport
Oman Air Cargo building at Muscat International Airport
152
153
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
154

Bait Al-Falaj Airport

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