Kigali International Airport in Rwanda received its first direct flight from SalamAir, the budget airline based in the Sultanate of Oman, on Tuesday. This inaugural service marks the establishment of the first nonstop air route linking the two countries, reflecting the airline’s efforts to broaden its presence in Africa and diversify its international network.

A formal reception was held at Kigali Airport to commemorate the flight’s arrival. Attendees included Hamoud bin Khalfan al Busaidy, Honorary Consul of Rwanda to Oman; Hussain bin Saif al Harthy, Honorary Consul of Oman to Rwanda; and Dan Munyuza, Non-Resident Ambassador of Rwanda to Oman.

Adrian Hamilton-Manns, SalamAir’s Chief Executive Officer, described the launch as a significant milestone, emphasizing the carrier’s commitment to expanding into markets that foster tourism and business opportunities while enhancing global connectivity. Said bin Abdullah al Rashdi, Director-General of Corporate Support at SalamAir, noted that the inaugural flight took approximately five hours and experienced strong demand from travelers originating from Oman.

The airline plans to operate two flights weekly between Muscat International Airport and Kigali, offering passengers an affordable and convenient travel option between the two capitals. This new route aims to support increased tourism and economic ties between Oman and Rwanda.