New Delhi: Oman has taken a major step towards building its own aircraft maintenance industry, with national carrier Oman Air and Indonesia's GMF AeroAsia launching the country's first dedicated maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) venture at Muscat International Airport.
The new company, Oman GMF Technic, was inaugurated on November 10, 2026, at a facility recently opened by Oman's Civil Aviation Authority. The venture aims to attract airlines from across the region while reducing the country's dependence on overseas aircraft maintenance providers.
What will Oman GMF Technic offer?
The joint venture will provide base and line maintenance services to airlines operating in Oman and other international markets.
Line maintenance covers routine aircraft inspections and minor repairs between flights, while base maintenance involves more extensive checks, often requiring aircraft to remain in a hangar for several days.
The facility is expected to help airlines reduce the need to send aircraft abroad for maintenance.
Training Omani engineers
The partnership will also focus on developing local aviation talent through technical training and knowledge-sharing.
According to official communication, Oman Air chief executive Nasser Al Sharji said the venture would create career opportunities for Omanis and help attract international aviation business.
Oman eyes bigger aviation role
The launch was attended by Transport Minister Said bin Hamood Al Maawali and Finance Minister Sultan bin Salim Al Habsi, Omani media reported.
The project follows a 20-year concession agreement signed by GMF AeroAsia and Oman's Civil Aviation Authority on October 5, 2026, covering aircraft maintenance facilities at Muscat airport.
It also supports Oman's broader aviation ambitions under its National Aviation Strategy 2040.
The companies have not disclosed the investment involved or the number of jobs expected to be created.
(With inputs from GMF AeroAsia and official sources)