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Oman Air Joins Oneworld: What It Means for Your Miles and Lounge Access

The Middle Eastern carrier becomes oneworld’s 15th member, offering travelers new routes, premium perks, and full mileage reciprocity with American and Alaska

by George Gomez

June 30, 2025

Photo: Courtesy of Oman Air

The Middle East just gained a stronger voice in global aviation. On July 1, Oman Air officially became the 15th full member of the Oneworld Alliance, marking a pivotal step for both the Muscat-based airline and the alliance itself. With this move, the Sultanate of Oman’s flag carrier extends Oneworld’s premium footprint across the Gulf, bolsters connectivity into South Asia, and introduces two new destinations to the alliance map.

“We are proud to welcome Oman Air to the Oneworld family,” said Nat Pieper, CEO of Oneworld. “Oman Air brings valuable strategic reach and award-winning product and service to the alliance. This partnership opens up exciting new connections for our customers, particularly across the Gulf and South Asia, and reinforces Oneworld’s position as the premium alliance for international travelers.”

For savvy global travelers, the addition translates into more route options, enhanced perks, and a new way to access the Gulf, complemented by a dose of Omani hospitality.

Strengthening the Gulf Network

With Muscat International Airport (MCT) now a full-fledged Oneworld hub, the alliance gains a second strategic base in the Gulf, complementing Qatar Airways’ operations in Doha. Oman Air’s membership fills a critical geographical gap for the alliance and signals a stronghold in one of aviation’s most competitive regions.

Photo: Courtesy of Boeing / Craig Larsen

Oman Air currently operates a growing network of 42 destinations across 22 countries, including several key Oneworld hubs. From July 1, it will also inaugurate a nonstop Muscat–Amsterdam service, offering more transcontinental connections.

The addition of Oman Air also introduces two previously unserved airports to the Oneworld network:

  • Khasab Airport (KHS), in the Musandam Peninsula
  • Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) in Lucknow, India

These additions further deepen the alliance’s reach into South Asia and beyond.

Loyalty and Lounge Access, Elevated

For Oneworld Emerald, Sapphire, and Ruby frequent flyers, Oman Air’s integration comes with full benefits. That means earning and redeeming miles, priority check-in, boarding, baggage, and most notably, access to nearly 700 lounges worldwide—including Oneworld’s newest branded spaces in Amsterdam Schiphol and Seoul Incheon.

Photo: Amsterdam Schiphol Lounge. Courtesy of oneworld

Conversely, Oman Air Sindbad frequent flyers will now enjoy full Oneworld benefits when flying with alliance partners such as American Airlines, Japan Airlines, British Airways, and others.

“Oman Air is honored to be joining the Oneworld alliance, whose members and global footprint represent the best of what international travelers want to experience,” said Con Korfiatis, CEO of Oman Air.

“We are thrilled to be able to welcome Oneworld customers to the Sultanate of Oman to experience our unique culture, stunning mountain excursions, beautiful beaches, and, above all, the warm hospitality of the Omani people.”

Photo: Courtesy of Oman Air

Starting today, Oneworld passengers can use their American Airlines AAdvantage and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles to book flights on Oman Air. This means travelers can unlock new options, such as premium Business Studio suites and nonstop routes like Muscat–Amsterdam, using their existing miles—adding flexibility and value to their loyalty programs.

A Premium Player with Global Ambitions

Oman Air isn’t just another full-service airline—it’s one that punches above its weight in the premium travel space. It operates three-class cabins, including its signature Business Studio—private suites offered on select long-haul flights—and a growing reputation for excellence.

Courtesy of Oman Air

In 2025, Oman Air was recognized with Best Food & Beverage and Best Cabin Service in the Middle East by the APEX Awards. It is also one of only 10 airlines globally to receive the APEX World Class by YATES+ distinction and the first to earn it for a Business Class Lounge, specifically at its home base in Muscat.

These accolades reinforce the airline’s positioning as a world-class boutique carrier, offering an experience that stands out even within the Oneworld network, which includes such heavyweights as Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Finnair.

More Than a Map Expansion

For Oneworld, the addition of Oman Air to its portfolio is more than adding new dots to a map—it’s about enhancing the quality and cohesion of the alliance. With 15 members now under its umbrella, Oneworld is focused on premium experience, digital innovation, and mutual value over scale alone.

“With Oman Air coming on board, that brings us to 15 full members,” Pieper told Business Traveler during an interview in Delhi in June. “And yes—that means I now have 15 bosses.”

Photo: Courtesy of Oneworld

But behind the humor lies a serious strategy: creating an alliance that delivers a seamless, elevated experience—regardless of whose plane you’re on.

For business travelers looking for smoother connections, better lounge access, and consistency in service across the globe, Oman Air’s entry into Oneworld is more than symbolic—it’s transformative.

Oman Air’s arrival in the Oneworld alliance marks a powerful evolution in global airline partnerships. It reinforces Muscat’s importance on the world stage, strengthens the alliance’s Gulf network, and delivers high-touch service and access to new destinations.

For travelers seeking both substance and style in the skies, Oman Air’s Oneworld debut is a welcome ascent.