SWISS to operate special repatriation flight from Muscat to Zurich to assist stranded travelers

SWISS International Air Lines will fly a special repatriation flight from Muscat, Oman, to Zurich on Thursday to help travelers stranded by the Middle East crisis.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 5, 2026, 6:00 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Keystone-SDA via SWI swissinfo.ch

Emergency Flight Operations

In coordination with the Swiss government, SWISS is deploying a wide-body Airbus A340 to the Omani capital to address the growing backlog of travelers stranded by regional airspace closures. The aircraft departed for Muscat on Wednesday to prepare for the Thursday return leg to Zurich. The airline emphasized that this special mission is a humanitarian contribution intended to assist those affected by the "difficult situation" in the Middle East, which has seen commercial flight schedules decimated across the Gulf.

Priority for Ticket Holders and Registered Nationals

The flight is primarily designated for passengers who already hold valid SWISS tickets but were unable to complete their return journeys due to recent flight cancellations. In addition to existing customers, the airline is coordinating with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA). Swiss nationals who have registered their presence in Oman via the "Travel Admin" app or directly with the foreign ministry are being contacted with a dedicated booking hotline to secure remaining seats on the repatriation mission.

Muscat as a Temporary Logistics Hub

While Muscat is not a regular destination for SWISS, its relative safety and geographic position have made it a critical alternative for repatriation efforts as hubs like Dubai and Tel Aviv face more direct threats. The choice of the Airbus A340—a long-range aircraft with significant seating capacity—reflects the anticipated high demand for the flight. Security teams and additional cabin crew are reportedly being utilized to ensure the flight can navigate the complex and shifting air corridors currently managed by regional air traffic control.