Oman Air to Launch Muscat–Tashkent Route in June 2026

Oman Air has announced the launch of a new direct route between Muscat International Airport (MCT) and Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS) in Uzbekistan, with the inaugural flight scheduled for June 1, 2026. The service marks the flag carrier's first entry into the Central Asian market and represents a significant step in its ongoing network expansion.

The new route is the eighth international destination announced by the airline since December 2025, signaling an accelerated growth phase. According to an official Oman Air press release, the flight will operate twice weekly. The approximate flight time for the direct service is four hours, creating a new and efficient link between the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Strategic Expansion and Economic Alignment

The decision to launch services to Tashkent aligns with a broader industry trend of Middle Eastern carriers expanding their networks into Central Asia to capitalize on growing demand for tourism and business travel. The move is a key component of Oman Air's strategy to build a commercially sustainable network that balances direct point-to-point demand with entry into new, high-potential regions.

Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air (WY), commented on the new service, stating, “The launch of Tashkent reflects Oman Air's continued focus on building a commercially sustainable network that balances point-to-point demand with strategic growth markets. Central Asia represents a region of increasing relevance for both inbound and outbound travel.”

Furthermore, this network expansion directly supports Oman's 'Vision 2040' national economic strategy. This long-term plan aims to diversify the Omani economy away from hydrocarbons by developing key sectors, including logistics and tourism. By establishing new air links, Oman Air plays a crucial role in enhancing the country's connectivity and accessibility, which is vital for attracting international visitors and investment.

Tapping into New Tourism Markets

The Muscat-Tashkent route is positioned to serve both leisure and business travelers. The airline and tourism authorities are leveraging the shared cultural heritage between Oman and Uzbekistan to promote the connection. Both nations were significant points along the historic Silk Road, and this historical tie-in is being used as a marketing tool to attract cultural tourism.

Korfiatis added that “the new service is designed to support Oman's broader tourism ambitions by attracting visitors from Uzbekistan and the wider region.” The establishment of direct flights is expected to facilitate easier travel for tourists interested in exploring the historical sites, modern infrastructure, and natural landscapes of both countries. The increased connectivity is anticipated to stimulate economic activity in the hospitality and travel sectors of Oman and Uzbekistan.

What Comes Next

With the launch date set for June 2026, Oman Air will proceed with operational preparations and sales distribution for the new route. The successful integration of Tashkent into its network will likely serve as a benchmark for potential future expansion within Central Asia. The airline's recent series of route announcements suggests a continued focus on identifying and entering underserved or strategically important markets. This proactive approach to network development is critical as Gulf carriers compete to offer comprehensive global connectivity through their respective hubs.

Why This Matters

This route launch is more than a simple network addition; it represents a strategic pivot for Oman Air into the promising Central Asian market. The move demonstrates how a national airline's growth strategy can be intricately linked with a country's broader economic diversification goals. For the aviation industry, it underscores the ongoing trend of Gulf carriers expanding their reach and creating new trade and tourism corridors between the Middle East and other emerging regions.

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