SalamAir and MAI Launch Long-Term Aircraft Maintenance Facility in Oman

Oman’s Aviation Sector Levels Up: SalamAir and MAI Forge 10-Year Maintenance Partnership

In a strategic move designed to bolster Oman’s aviation infrastructure, low-cost carrier SalamAir has entered into a decade-long Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Mach Aerospace International (MAI). Announced on October 23, 2025, this partnership establishes a new, specialized maintenance facility at Muscat International Airport dedicated to aircraft wheels and brakes. This development is not just an operational upgrade; it represents a significant step toward national self-sufficiency in a critical sector, aligning with the country’s ambitious Oman Vision 2040 economic diversification plan.

The collaboration aims to anchor advanced MRO capabilities within the Sultanate, a function often outsourced to foreign providers. By localizing these high-value services, the initiative is set to enhance In-Country Value (ICV), create specialized jobs, and facilitate the transfer of cutting-edge technology and expertise. The new workshop will initially serve SalamAir’s growing fleet, but its services will also be available to other local and regional airlines, positioning Muscat as an increasingly attractive hub for comprehensive aviation support.

The Mechanics of the Agreement: A Symbiotic Partnership

The 10-year MOU clearly defines the roles for each partner to ensure the successful launch and operation of the new facility. SalamAir is tasked with providing a complete and specialized set of wheels and brakes shop tools, essentially equipping the workshop for the duration of the agreement. This investment underscores the airline’s commitment to building a robust local maintenance ecosystem that can support its own ambitious growth plans and the needs of the wider industry.

On the other side of the partnership, Mach Aerospace International, a global MRO provider, will leverage its industry expertise to oversee the establishment and day-to-day operations of the facility. MAI is expected to implement world-class maintenance processes and technologies. The goal is to deliver faster turnaround times for repairs, extend the life cycle of critical components, and uphold the highest international standards of safety and reliability, benefiting all carriers that utilize the service.

This division of labor creates a symbiotic relationship. SalamAir provides the foundational equipment and guaranteed business from its fleet, while MAI brings the operational know-how and global standards necessary to run a competitive MRO facility. This structure mitigates risk and ensures that the workshop can hit the ground running, immediately adding value to Oman’s aviation landscape.

“This agreement represents a strategic milestone in Oman’s journey toward building a diversified, knowledge-based economy and a globally competitive aviation sector.” – Mohammed Abdullah Al Khonji, Chairman of SalamAir

Beyond the Hangar: Fueling Oman Vision 2040

The implications of this partnership extend far beyond the operational efficiencies for SalamAir. It is a tangible manifestation of Oman Vision 2040, the nation’s long-term strategy for economic diversification and reducing reliance on oil revenues. By fostering a knowledge-based economy, the agreement directly contributes to the vision’s goals of creating high-value industries and specialized employment opportunities for Omani citizens. The new facility will serve as a training ground for local engineers and technicians, facilitating crucial technology and knowledge transfer.

Furthermore, the initiative significantly boosts In-Country Value (ICV). Every wheel and brake assembly serviced in Muscat keeps revenue within Oman’s borders, strengthens the local supply chain, and builds industrial resilience. This move toward self-sufficiency in a critical aviation function reduces dependency on international MRO providers, giving the nation greater control over its aviation infrastructure. As the facility expands its services to other airlines, it will further cement Muscat International Airport‘s reputation as a preferred regional base for high-quality technical support, potentially attracting further investment.

This strategic localization is also critical for supporting SalamAir’s own rapid expansion. The airline, which projects carrying over 4 million passengers in 2025, plans to increase its fleet from 15 to 25 aircraft by 2028. Having a dedicated, in-house maintenance solution for essential components ensures greater fleet readiness, minimizes downtime, and provides the operational resilience needed to sustain such growth. It is a foundational pillar in the airline’s strategy to strengthen its engineering backbone and solidify its role as a key enabler of Oman’s aviation ecosystem.

“By providing the agreed-on Wheels & Brakes maintenance services, we will introduce world-class maintenance processes and technology designed to deliver faster turnaround times, extend component life cycles, and ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability.” – Dr. Abdullah Masoud Al-Harthy, Chairman of Mach Aerospace International

Conclusion: A Foundation for Future Growth

The partnership between SalamAir and Mach Aerospace International is more than a simple business agreement; it is a strategic investment in Oman’s future. By localizing critical MRO services, the nation is taking a decisive step toward building a self-reliant and globally competitive aviation sector. This initiative directly supports the economic diversification goals of Oman Vision 2040, creating a ripple effect that includes job creation, technology transfer, and increased In-Country Value.

Looking ahead, this wheels and brakes facility could serve as a blueprint and a foundational element for a much larger, more comprehensive MRO ecosystem in Oman. As SalamAir continues its expansion and Muscat International Airport grows as a regional hub, the demand for localized, high-quality maintenance services will only increase. This collaboration lays the groundwork for future ventures, positioning Oman not just as a destination, but as a center of aviation innovation and technical excellence in the region.

FAQ

Question: What is the main purpose of the SalamAir and Mach Aerospace International partnership?
Answer: The primary goal is to establish a specialized facility at Muscat International Airport for aircraft wheels and brakes maintenance. This 10-year partnership aims to enhance Oman’s in-country aviation maintenance capabilities, serve SalamAir’s fleet and other regional airlines, and support the goals of Oman Vision 2040.

Question: What are the roles of each company in the agreement?
Answer: SalamAir will provide the complete set of specialized tools and equipment for the maintenance shop. Mach Aerospace International will be responsible for establishing and operating the facility, implementing world-class maintenance processes and technology.

Question: How does this partnership align with Oman Vision 2040?
Answer: It directly supports Oman Vision 2040 by fostering economic diversification away from oil, creating a knowledge-based economy through technology transfer, generating specialized employment opportunities for Omanis, and increasing the nation’s In-Country Value (ICV) by reducing reliance on foreign service providers.

Sources

• SalamAir Press