SalamAir, Oman's budget airline, has announced that it will suspend its flights to and from India starting from October 1, 2023.
SalamAir Airline to Halt Flights to and From India
This decision has left many passengers in disarray, particularly Indian expatriates in Oman who rely on the airline for affordable travel options to India. SalamAir currently operates flights to four Indian cities: Jaipur, Lucknow, Kozhikode, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Affected Passengers
Passengers with bookings on SalamAir flights beyond October 1, 2023, have received emails notifying them that their reservations will be null and void. This abrupt announcement has disrupted the travel plans of hundreds of passengers, leaving them scrambling to make alternative arrangements.
Refunds Promised
SalamAir has assured affected passengers that they will receive full refunds for their bookings. In an email to passengers, the airline expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by this decision and cited limitations on flight rights allocation to India as the reason for discontinuing flights to and from the country.
Affordable Travel for Indian Expatriates
SalamAir has been a popular choice for Indian expatriates in Oman, offering affordable travel options to their home country. The suspension of flights to India has left this community seeking alternative airlines and travel options, which may result in higher costs and less convenience.
Impact on Fujairah Airport
SalamAir's decision to suspend flights to India will also affect its connections from Fujairah Airport to Jaipur, Lucknow, and Thiruvananthapuram. This change in service will impact passengers traveling to and from Fujairah Airport, further complicating travel plans for those affected.
SalamAir's Response
SalamAir explained in its email to passengers that the decision to suspend India flights was not made lightly. The airline cited limitations on flight rights allocation to India as a significant factor behind this move. SalamAir expressed its commitment to caring for its customers and pledged to provide full refunds to passengers affected by the flight suspension.
Passenger Disruption
The abrupt suspension of SalamAir's India flights has disrupted the travel plans of many passengers, highlighting the challenges faced by airlines and travelers in the evolving landscape of international travel, especially in response to factors such as flight rights and restrictions. Passengers are now left to navigate alternative travel options and potential cost increases as a result of this change.
