Oman Air cleared for Zagreb

Croatia and Oman ink Air Service Agreement

Oman and Croatia have signed an Air Service Agreement and a Memorandum of Understanding paving the way for Oman Air to begin flights to Zagreb and other cities in Croatia. The agreement was initiated by the Government of Oman. Croatia Airlines, which has also gained rights to operate flights to Muscat, says it is unlikely that either of the national carriers will begin flights between the two countries anytime soon. However, according to Croatia Airlines, the two sides will enter into cooperative marketing to develop and liberalise the regulatory framework for air services and promote tourism, commerce, trade and faster economic growth between the two countries.

Croatia designated Croatia Airlines, Dubrovnik Airline and Trade Air as its official airlines while Oman designated Oman Air. Under the agreement, the designated airlines from both countries can operate an unlimited number of passenger and cargo flights using any type of aircraft. The two countries also agreed to adopt an open skies policy in order to include third, fourth and fifth freedom passenger rights on intermediate routes and beyond. This would, for example, allow Oman Air to operate flights between Croatia and another country other than Oman.

Croatian media have stated that Oman Air could bring many affluent tourists to Zagreb and Dubrovnik, which would have a positive effect on the country’s tourism industry. Croatia Airlines does not have a developed Middle East route network. However, the airline does operate a three weekly service from Zagreb to Tel Aviv in Israel. On the other hand, Oman Air has recently established itself as a fast growing and award winning airline. It operates a combination of Airbus and Boeing aircraft with its fleet also including Boeing 737-700s and -800 series jets. In Europe, the airline operates flights to Frankfurt, Munich, London, Paris and Milan and will soon launch flights to Moscow and Zurich.