Saturday 05 / July / 2025
Muscat: Tests are underway at the Muscat International Airport to ensure it is ready to start operations, according to industry experts.
“Just because construction is complete does not mean an airport is ready to start operations,” said Katherine Kaczynska, from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). To prepare for the successful opening of the new Muscat International Airport, a series of trials will be conducted over the coming weeks.
Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) trials are being carried out at Oman’s new airport. “New basic ORAT trials continue for three weeks in a row at the New Muscat International Airport,” Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) recently said. “The purpose of an ORAT programme is to ensure the safe and successful start of a new airport facility,” Katherine Kaczynska, manager, Corporate Communications for Middle East and Africa at IATA, said.
“It is the best way to ensure that everything functions as designed from day one. Opening an airport facility is a complex endeavour, therefore, methodical preparation is necessary before an airport can start operations.
“Whether a launch is successful or not can have an enduring impact on an airport’s reputation. Just because construction is complete does not mean an airport is ready to start operations,” Kaczynska said.
An ORAT team comprises experienced experts who work with an airport’s stakeholders in executing a proven methodology to prepare a new airport facility for operations.
“The ORAT process provides a useful platform to track performance, coordinate actions, and overcome obstacles. The ORAT team updates processes, trains staff, and then tests every single new system and procedure to check functionality.
The scope can range from passenger and baggage handling to security and airside operations. An ORAT may also include planning for a smooth transfer from old to new facilities by determining when and where airlines and other tenants should move.
“The size and complexity of today’s major airports and their systems make this kind of methodical preparation necessary. An ORAT process can take anywhere between three months and a year to complete. It requires a significant time and effort but is an absolutely vital step in ensuring a flawless opening for any major airport project,” Kaczynska said.
Wasim Zaidi, general manager, Oman, Jet Airways, said, “We are hopeful that the terminal opening this year. We were part of a recent familiarisation trip to the planned terminal through OAMC. It looks state-of-the-art and a much improved version. The new terminal would mean better guest service, more duty free options and more capacity for airlines, which would translate to a higher influx into Oman and revenue generation on air side and land side. It’s a win-win for all. The new Muscat International Airport will have the capacity to handle 12 million passengers when it is opened.
