As I’ve explained in the past, there’s probably not a business class product in the world I’m more anxious to try than Oman Air’s.
On their original Airbus A330 aircraft, business class is in a 1-2-1 configuration with fully forward facing seats, so it looks a lot more like first class seats from a decade ago than business class. Admittedly as business class products have improved it’s not quite as cutting edge as it used to be, but it’s still a pretty awesome product.
Last December I explained how Oman Air was introducing a new business class product on their high density A330s, which is actually a worse and much less unique product. While it still looks very good, it’s definitely not as unique as their original product.
As I’ve written in the past, I was under the impression that there was no way to redeem miles from any “major” points programs for travel on Oman Air. I thought that they more or less had no airline partners, and the only way to redeem miles on them was directly through their program.
However, reader FirstForTakeoff over in the “Ask Lucky” forums pointed out the following:
Lucky, did you know this? Would love to see a trip report on Oman Air! Etihad is their ONLY miles partner. Only 42k TY points for MCT-LHR in J.
And if you can find a way to sit in the first class sofa / love seat, even better!
I actually had no clue — you truly learn something new in this hobby every day.
Here’s the Etihad Guest award chart for redemptions on Oman Air.
Indeed, it looks like you can redeem 42,000 Etihad Guest miles for one-way business class between Muscat and Europe in Oman Air business class.
Keep in mind that Etihad Guest is transfer partners with Citi ThankYou Rewards, meaning you can redeem the points you earn through the Citi Prestige® Card and Citi Strata Premier℠ Card (review) towards this award.
That’s certainly a nice option to have if you want to try Oman Air. There are also some reasonable Oman Air business class fares published out of Cairo and Colombo, so just booking a paid ticket is another option.
Regardless, I’d really like to fly them before they change their product altogether!
Can you use AA miles to book an Oman Air flight?
The Etihad Guest requires minimum 7 days advance booking with Oman Air. I tried today to book a flight to depart 3 days from now that I cannot do it due to 7 days requirements. Worst part of this the seat was available :(
For info, the cost when I booked two OW flights on Oman Air via Etihad Guest last year:
Endorsement / Restrictions MILES 84000 PARTNER AIRLINE
REDEMPTION
Fare Calculation Line MCT WY LON0.00NUC0.00END ROE0.3845
Fare OMR 0.000
Taxes/Fees/Carrier-Imposed Charges OMR 69.500 YQF (SERVICE FEE - FUEL)
OMR 5.000 OM (EMBARKATION TAX)
Total Fare OMR 74.500 which is just short of $200
Seat allocation is available for free if you call Oman Air directly after making the...
For info, the cost when I booked two OW flights on Oman Air via Etihad Guest last year:
Endorsement / Restrictions MILES 84000 PARTNER AIRLINE
REDEMPTION
Fare Calculation Line MCT WY LON0.00NUC0.00END ROE0.3845
Fare OMR 0.000
Taxes/Fees/Carrier-Imposed Charges OMR 69.500 YQF (SERVICE FEE - FUEL)
OMR 5.000 OM (EMBARKATION TAX)
Total Fare OMR 74.500 which is just short of $200
Seat allocation is available for free if you call Oman Air directly after making the booking. Etihad were unable to allocate seats.
There are quite a few very good uses of EY miles. Redeemed 25610 miles for a one way business class ticket from PRG to ICN on Czech Airlines. Costed me 20488 membership rewards points because I made the transfer while they offered a 25% bonus.
Definitely recommend a visit
Sorry, I forgot Hong Kong
Great, Oman is one of a few countries that do not have VAT / sales tax. Along with
Gibraltar, Oman,Qatar,Saudia Arab. It would be a great place if you love shopping!
Yes,yes,yes.
I'm so freaking happy.
I'm jumping with excitement!
Is it possible to redeem Etihad guest miles for Oman Air First?
@ Joey -- It doesn't look like it, unfortunately.
Go for it Ben!! Also, do a side trip to Muscat, if you havent been there. A friend of mine told me Oman is one of the most underrated Gulf countries for a relaxing beach trip.
@ The Value Traveler -- Have indeed been there, and loved it. GREAT place.
Were they ever rumoured to join one of the big three alliances?
@ Wolfgang -- Not that I recall, unfortunately.
Rate for Muscat-Dar Es Salaam looks weird.