Oman’s budget airline, SalamAir, officially launched its first direct flight from Muscat to Nairobi on March 17, 2025. The inaugural flight landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Monday afternoon, marking a crucial step in the airline’s expansion into Africa.
The launch event at JKIA was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including Her Excellency Nasra Salim Mohamed Al Hashmi, the Omani Ambassador to Kenya, and His Excellency Abdi Aden Korio, the Kenyan Ambassador to Oman. Also present were Kenya’s Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) Chairman Caleb Kositany.
Adrian Hamilton-Manns, CEO of SalamAir, expressed excitement about the new route, stating, “We are thrilled to expand our network by introducing flights between Muscat and Nairobi. This new route aligns with Oman Vision 2040, which aims to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Oman and key global destinations. Nairobi is a vibrant city with strong business potential and rich tourism opportunities. This connection will also allow Kenyan travelers to explore Oman’s unique attractions, making it one of the region’s most sought-after destinations.”
The new direct route is expected to enhance bilateral relations between Kenya and Oman by fostering trade, tourism, and investment. Ambassador Nasra Salim Mohamed Al Hashmi noted that the service would significantly boost business engagements and cultural exchange, reinforcing the long-standing historical ties between the two nations.
Kenyan Ambassador to Oman, His Excellency Abdi Aden Korio, highlighted the importance of this direct connection, stating, “The SalamAir inaugural flight to Nairobi is a game-changer. This is the only direct flight linking Oman and Kenya, facilitating essential connections for travelers, business professionals, and government officials. We welcome SalamAir and anticipate a thriving partnership that will benefit both countries.”
Currently, SalamAir will operate two weekly flights between Nairobi and Muscat, with plans to increase frequency and introduce cargo flights. The airline’s network also offers seamless connections from Nairobi to key destinations, including India, Thailand, and Central Asia. This new route cements Nairobi as a vital hub for travelers looking to access the Gulf and beyond.
