Oman Air has introduced a unique flight path between Muscat (MCT) and Copenhagen (CPH) that transits through Baghdad (BGW). This service, launching on December 16, 2025, represents a distinctive “fifth freedom” route, enabling passengers to travel between any of the three cities. The airline operates the service twice weekly using a Boeing 737 MAX 8, configured with 12 business class recliner seats and 150 economy seats.
The Route Details
The flight schedule is as follows:
- Muscat to Baghdad: Departs 1:00 PM, arrives 2:55 PM local time. (Flight time: 2hr 55min)
- Baghdad to Copenhagen: Departs 3:55 PM, arrives 7:25 PM (+1 day). (Flight time: 5hr 30min)
- Copenhagen to Baghdad: Departs 8:25 PM, arrives 3:25 AM (+1 day). (Flight time: 5hr)
- Baghdad to Muscat: Departs 4:25 AM, arrives 8:00 AM. (Flight time: 2hr 35min)
The total travel time between Muscat and Copenhagen is approximately 9hr 25min eastbound or 8hr 35min westbound. Passengers can book tickets for any combination of these legs, making the route versatile for various travel needs.
Strategic Implications
Oman Air’s decision to include Baghdad as a transit point is part of a broader restructuring aimed at profitability. The airline has scaled back its wide-body fleet, focusing instead on Boeing 737 operations in markets traditionally served by larger aircraft. This strategy allows Oman Air to compete on price while still capturing connecting traffic.
The inclusion of Baghdad serves a dual purpose : it provides service to an underserved market while also enabling the airline to serve Copenhagen with greater efficiency. The move could be seen as a calculated risk, leveraging a less conventional route to expand its network and cater to travelers seeking cost-effective options.
Passenger Perception and Potential Concerns
While the new route offers convenience for travelers between Baghdad, Muscat, and Copenhagen, it may surprise passengers unfamiliar with the transit point. Some customers booking flights between Muscat and Copenhagen may not realize they’ll be stopping in Baghdad, potentially leading to confusion or complaints.
The optics of routing through Baghdad could raise concerns for some travelers, given perceptions surrounding the region. Despite no apparent safety issues, the stopover may be seen as unconventional, especially by those unaware of the route’s details.
Oman Air’s approach demonstrates a willingness to explore unconventional routes to boost profitability, but it also highlights the importance of transparency in flight itineraries.
In conclusion, Oman Air’s Muscat-Baghdad-Copenhagen route is a bold move that combines operational efficiency with strategic market expansion. While the route presents potential challenges in passenger perception, it also offers a unique value proposition for those seeking affordable travel options between these destinations.
