Oman Air sets out plan ‘to become the best’

25/01/2015 07:53 AST

A Global conference of Oman Air staff held recently in the auditorium of the Public Authority for Civil Aviation in Muscat has given ambitious proposals for growth and prosperity a warm welcome.

The proposals were set out by Chief Executive Officer Paul Gregorowitsch, and provided a centerpiece for the event, whose theme was ‘To become the Best’. They included the continuation of Oman Air’s ambitious expansion strategy, together with the launch of a stringent efficiency program, entitled ‘Shape and Size’. This will see the airline make cost savings of RO 100 million over the next three years, resulting in Oman Air achieving profitability by the end of 2017.

The conference saw staff from around the world converge on the Omani capital to hear presentations from a range of dignitaries and senior managers.

The event was opened by Darwish bin Ismael Al Balushi, the Minister Responsible for Financial Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Oman Air. He said “the 10 year strategy of Oman Air has been prepared, and has been thoroughly evaluated and assessed. It focuses mainly on fleet and network expansion, and on boosting revenues so as to reach breakeven and hence attain profitability. At the same time, we will continue to provide the very best, highly distinguished services and ensure that our valued customers remain our top priority.”

Chief Executive Officer Paul Gregorowitsch gave the keynote presentation. Explaining that profitability has always been an aim for Oman Air, he said the time has now come for Oman Air to stop relying on the government for Oman’s financial backing.

“With the start of 2015, we have set new financial targets for Oman Air. Whilst these are more challenging than in previous years, our vision, objectives and values remain the same. Our Vision – and the theme of this conference - is “To Become the Best”, he said.

“Our objectives are to be a safe airline, to be the airline of First Choice, to make money by increasing revenues and reducing costs, to cater for growth as set out in our 10 year plan, and to contribute to the development of the Sultanate. And our values are trust and respect, transparency and integrity, taking responsibility, team work, and fun.”

Saudi Gazette