Wednesday 19 / August / 2026
Muscat: The Oman Air Sports Committee (OASC) has announced the immediate suspension of all paragliding and gliding activities across the Sultanate until further notice, following a tragic accident in Dhofar Governorate that claimed the lives of Captain Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Kalbani and his sister.
The committee said the decision was taken in coordination with the relevant government authorities and applies to all types of gliding operations at authorised locations across Oman.
OASC urged all practitioners, clubs and air-sports enthusiasts to fully comply with the suspension, stressing that the measure is aimed at ensuring public safety and adherence to the national regulatory framework governing air sports.
In a statement, the committee expressed its condolences over the deaths of Captain Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Kalbani and his sister following the accident in Salalah. It prayed for God's mercy upon the deceased and patience and solace for their family.
The suspension comes as Dhofar was hosting the week-long Air Sports Village event, which began on Wednesday and ran until August 17, 2026. The event was organised by the Oman Air Sports Committee in cooperation with the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.
The opening ceremony featured aerial displays and a range of activities, including paragliding, kite flying and drone demonstrations, attracting visitors and tourists to the governorate.
Dr Ahmed Al Alawi, Chairman of the Oman Air Sports Committee, said the event aimed to make air sports part of the community's culture while contributing to tourism promotion in Dhofar.
Hussein Issa, a member of OASC, said this year's edition also offered visitors an opportunity to experience simulated flying activities through virtual reality technology.
The opening ceremony concluded with Sheikh Tarik Khalid Al Hinai, Wali of Taqah, honouring representatives of public and private sector institutions that supported the event in recognition of their efforts to promote air sports and tourism in Dhofar.
