Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in Volume 5 of B.H. Magazine. To get your copy (and access to future issues), subscribe here.
How about a quick intro before departure?
New airline CEOs don’t usually make headlines in their first 12 months – unless you’re Con Korfiatis.
Since taking the reins at Oman Air in May 2024, the veteran executive – with tenures at Ansett, Jetstar, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, among others – has not only navigated the carrier’s delayed Oneworld onboarding, he’s also wasted no time improving efficiencies. Among the first outward-facing signs of change? A decision to scrap first class altogether, putting a spotlight on the airline’s Business Suite – a class-leading hard product linking Asia and Europe, now available to Qantas Frequent Flyers with points to burn.
So, what exactly is Oman’s Business Suite?
Oman’s hard product has been streamlined. What was formerly a true first class product has been retired, due to declining demand. Instead of ripping the relatively fresh suites out of their 787 Dreamliners, which launched in 2018, Korfiatis opted to rebrand and reprice them, marketing the Business Studio as an enhanced offering, but at a lower price point than first class (roughly a 50% premium on regular Business).
The eight capacious suites offer a fully enclosed zone in a classic 1-2-1 configuration. Each suite features a proper sliding privacy door and the seat glides into a single bed with ample width and length. There’s a padded footrest that doubles as a companion seat, which is perfect for hosting your fellow traveller over dinner – and should be high on your bucket list.
How does it stack up in the air?
The seat is absolutely palatial, and impresses in upright and reclined positions, with well-padded surfaces and intuitive controls. But once fully flat, a couple of details detract from what could be a best-in-class experience. The lack of a mattress topper is surprising, and the fixed headrest juts into the sleeping surface – an intrusive detail that makes Oman’s regular Business Class seat actually more comfortable for lie-flat rest.
Entertainment is another weak point. While the screen is sharp and responsive, the content library is limited, especially when compared to other Gulf carriers. And the connectivity? Borderline unusable. You’re given a single-use Wi-Fi voucher, but the network frequently drops out and runs so slowly that it’s not worth the effort – a critical flaw in a product branded for business travellers.
While no luggage bins above make for a grand space, it means cabin storage is seriously lacking. A smaller backpack, sling, or handbag can be packed into the footrest in front of you, but there’s nowhere to store a hardshell carry-on within reach. The crew can stow it for you in the galley, but it’s an inconvenient solution for travellers who frequently reach for their luggage.
Although there are weak points that require addressing, the soft product ensures a very enjoyable experience overall. Our crew were attentive and personable throughout, and there’s genuine warmth to the service that matches the branding. The solid menu matches that of the Business Class cabin behind, but it’s served with more polish in the suite. The champagne (Laurent-Perrier) and wine selection are excellent, and the Arabic coffee and dates are a fragrant and thoughtful addition. The bathrooms are also kitted out with his and hers Amouage fragrances – a very luxurious and decidedly Omani touch – plus we were served an Amouage collaboration dessert after our meal.
Are there any design notes worth mentioning?
There’s a strong sense of national identity here, but design firm Teague has expressed it with restraint. Latticework textures, bronzed trims, and a palette drawn from the Omani landscape give the suite a calm elegance – less “bling” and more like a boutique hotel. Practical elements are well integrated, including a concealed minibar, coat storage, and sliding console, though the lack of convenient cabin-baggage storage is an oversight.
What makes this worth your points?
As the newest member of Oneworld, Oman Air redemptions are now live through Qantas Frequent Flyer, and the flight between Bangkok and Frankfurt via Muscat is an exciting option for Australians travelling to Europe. One-way Business Class tickets can be booked for 125,400 points, and this is perhaps the biggest positive of choosing Oman (or Finnair, who fly BKK to FRA via HEL): actually affordable taxes, offering a level of privacy, comfort, and value that exceeds the alternative through Dubai.
You’ve also got an excuse to spend a night in Bangkok and an afternoon at the Städel Museum in Frankfurt, if you desire.
Anything to watch for?
Not every 787 is equipped with the Business Suite, and Oman’s lounge offering outside Muscat is still catching up. But as a statement of intent – and the beginning of a larger shift under Korfiatis – this Business Suite is a serious play. With some refinement to bedding, connectivity, and content, it could very well become a dark horse in the premium cabin race.
For now, it’s a smart, stylish, and very solid way to get from Asia to Europe.
If you’ve enjoyed this feature on Oman Air’s Business Class, consider a few more of our favourite stories – direct from the pages of B.H. Magazine:
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- Luxury In Motion: Exploring Southeast Asia On The Eastern & Oriental Express
- Heaven Is A Place On Earth: Inside The World’s Greatest “Pure Golf” Resort
- Shipping Out: 10 Days Aboard The World’s Only Luxury Icebreaker
- Cathay Pacific ‘Aria’ Business Class Review: An Air Of Artistry
