Oman Aviation Services signed an MoU with ground.net, a European ground services alliance launched in 2013. OAS is set to become the first non-European member in the next 12 months, which will provide the organisation with access to new markets, expertise, best practice and training. OAS also signed an MoU to join TIACA.
Since 2013, air cargo in Oman has grown 72% from 122,000 tons in 2013 to 210,000 tons last year. It is currently forecast to top 220,000 tons by the end of the year and projects growth to more than 780,000 tonnes by 2030.
OAG recently developed the National Air Cargo Strategy which outlines the important measures needed to capitalise on cargo opportunities, designed to strengthen sea-land connectivity in Sohar, Duqm and Salalah.
“Air cargo represents an enormous opportunity for Oman,” said Mustafa al Hinai, OAG CEO. “By modernising our cargo infrastructures and implementing an ambitious air cargo strategy, we will be able to tap into niche cargo corridors in several key markets and further drive economic development across Oman.”
With a significant portion of Muscat’s import and export cargo made up of perishables and temperature-controlled goods including fruits and vegetables and pharmaceutical products, OAS says its new 22,500 square metre, air-conditioned terminal and cold storage room ensures an unbroken cold chain throughout the entire handling process.