The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) held an extensive media briefing today on 25 June 2025 to present its 2024 performance highlights, under the auspices of H.E. Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Minister of Information, and in the presence of strategic partners and key stakeholders.

The year 2024 marked a pivotal chapter in the development of Oman’s civil aviation sector, as the Authority delivered notable achievements across operational, technological, and regulatory domains. These advancements reflect a strategic vision to position Oman as a regional and global hub for the aviation industry, aligned with the national aspirations of Oman Vision 2040 to build a diversified and sustainable economy that elevates the Sultanate’s global competitiveness.

In its annual review, the Authority reported record revenues of OMR 105 million, the highest in its history, ranking it among the top five government entities contributing to national revenue. This milestone reflects the CAA’s operational efficiency and financial sustainability.

In aviation safety, the Authority achieved a compliance rate of 95.95%. Oman also secured fifth place globally in the ICAO Effective Implementation Index for aviation safety oversight, further strengthening international confidence in its civil aviation system.

In infrastructure and regulation, the Authority operated the southern runway at Muscat International Airport into, adopted the National Civil Aviation Policy, signed nine air transport agreements, issued new regulations on passenger rights, and introduced a licensing framework for drone registration and airspace management.

On the digital transformation front, the Authority reengineered 113 e-services, deployed the Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS), and earned ISO 27001 certification for information security. It also implemented a new numerical weather prediction system and launched a wadi flood index model.

Further accomplishments included issuing operating permits to 19 international airlines, adopting national aviation security and cybersecurity policies, activating operational manuals for Duqm and Marmul airports, and commissioning a new air navigation radar in Jalan Bani Bu Ali. The Authority also approved emergency, and evacuation plans for its facilities and adopted a national aviation security risk assessment methodology.

Operational statistics revealed a 2% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers. The CAA recorded 120,073 flights, 150,118 tonnes of air cargo, and over 540,300 aircraft movements through Omani airspace, a 14% rise. The Authority issued 17,182 flight and diplomatic permits, 2,112 aviation obstruction clearances, and expanded its weather monitoring system by increasing the number of observation stations to 80 across the Sultanate. It also responded to 520 public complaints with transparency and efficiency, reinforcing public trust.

Commenting on the occasion, H.E. Eng. Naif bin Ali Al Abri, President of the Civil Aviation Authority, stated: “Developing the aviation sector is not just about achieving numbers, it’s a strategic investment in Oman’s future and its growing role in the global aviation landscape.”

He emphasized that the 2024 achievements stemmed from a clear vision and strong collaboration among relevant entities, affirming the Authority’s continued commitment to excellence and innovation to secure a sustainable future for this vital sector.

In terms of human capital, the CAA delivered specialized training programs in navigation, meteorology, and civil aviation regulation. These efforts earned the Authority the award for Best New Employee Development Program and the Government HR Innovation Award, testament to its institutional excellence.

Internationally, Oman hosted the ICAO Global Aviation Security Symposium, which brought together 800 specialists and 39 ministers from 77 countries. The Authority also organized global workshops on meteorology, satellite systems, and tsunami early warning, and participated in major events including the UN Climate Change Conference, the ICAO Regional Aviation Security and Facilitation Group meeting, and the ICAN Air Services Negotiation Conference, further strengthening Oman’s presence in global aviation diplomacy.

This media briefing comes as a part of the CAA’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency and engagement with the public. The CAA affirmed that the accomplishments of 2024 are a launchpad for a new phase of comprehensive development, driven by innovation and commitment, and will further reinforce Oman’s position as a leading hub for civil aviation in the region and beyond.