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December 18, 2025

Ascend Airways announces new wet lease agreement with Oman Air

Ascend Airways is proud to announce a new wet lease agreement with the flag carrier of Oman, Oman Air, marking another significant step forward in the airline’s continued growth and international expansion.

Under the agreement, Ascend Airways will provide a Boeing 737-8 MAX to support Oman Air’s operations throughout the winter season. The aircraft will operate six weekly services between Muscat and Istanbul, alongside additional regional routes within Oman Air’s wider network. Passengers will benefit from the latest generation narrowbody experience, while the 737-8 MAX delivers substantial fuel efficiency gains and enhanced technical dispatch reliability.

In parallel with the aircraft deployment, Ascend Airways’ Cabin Crew Training department has undertaken cabin crew conversion training for Oman Air crews. Delivered at short notice, the programme demonstrates Ascend Airways’ flexibility, depth of expertise, and ability to rapidly support partner airlines with high-quality training solutions alongside operational flying.

This announcement follows another major milestone for Ascend Airways with the successful receipt of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 129 approval earlier this month. The approval represents a key achievement in the company’s international strategy, enabling Ascend Airways to actively pursue new commercial opportunities involving the United States while strengthening its position as a flexible and dependable operator in the global wet lease market.

Alastair Willson, CEO, Ascend Airways, commented, “Our wet lease agreement with Oman Air reflects the strength of Ascend Airways’ operational capability and flexibility. From deploying a Boeing 737-8 MAX and delivering cabin crew conversion training at short notice, to securing FAA Part 129 approval and expanding our winter flying programme, these milestones demonstrate the professionalism of our people and position us well for continued international growth.”

The winter season has already seen further expansion across Ascend Airways’ existing operations. Services between London Gatwick and Banjul, operated on behalf of The Gambia Experience, have increased to three rotations per week. Meanwhile, flights between London Gatwick and Freetown, operated for Air Sierra Leone, have increased to two weekly rotations per week.

With multiple aircraft deployments, new regulatory approvals, expanded schedules, and training support now in place, Ascend Airways is entering a particularly busy winter season. The company extends its sincere thanks to all team members across the organisation whose dedication and commitment have been instrumental in delivering these achievements.