A330-300_Oman_Air

Oman’s state-owned carrier Oman Air has placed a firm order for three A330-300s, which will be an addition to the airlines’ existing three A330-300s and four A330-200s in service.

The aircraft, which can accommodate up to 300 passengers, will be operated on long-haul routes.

Oman Air CEO Wayne Pearce said the efficiency, reliability and passenger appeal of the carrier’s in-service A330’s already make The Pillar of Oman Air’s long-haul operations.

"This additional order will allow us to continue our strategy of growth with an aircraft we know to be both reliable and profitable, and in addition offering the highest levels of passenger comfort," Pearce added.

Oman Air’s existing A330-300s are configured to accommodate 230 passengers in a three class layout, with a long-haul first class and a business class in addition to economy.

The airline also operates two ATR 42-500 turboprops, three Embraer 175s, two Boeing 737-700s and 13 Boeing 737-800 jets.

"This additional order will allow us to continue our strategy of growth with an aircraft we know to be both reliable and profitable."

In addition, it has on order two more Embraer 175s, four Boeing 737-800s and six Boeing 787-8, which are expected to be delivered in 2015.

Airbus stated that its aircraft incorporate cockpit and operational commonality that allows airlines to use the same pilots, cabin crews and maintenance engineers, resulting in significant cost savings.

Airbus has received 1,200 firm orders for A330 jets and more than 900 aircraft are in service with 100 operators worldwide.

A330 is available in passenger, freighter, VIP and military transport / tanker variants.

Image: Oman Air will operate the new A330-300s on long haul routes. Photo: courtesy of Fixion / Airbus SAS.

Defence Technology