Aston Martin has been tight-lipped about the Lagonda revival project, having released but a single drawing to announce its existence. Now our first proper look at the new luxury saloon comes from the most unlikely source: Oman Air!

The Middle Eastern airliner was apparently tapped to transport an Aston Martin Lagonda test unit to the Gulf region for hot weather testing. It’s not just because the weather is just too pleasant in Europe for these tests. The Logonda is actually being developed for the Middle East market. The whole project was reportedly green lighted when enough wealthy Arabs said they would buy it.

Aston Martin Lagonda sedan is a work of the British company’s bespoke division, known as Q. The design harks back to vintage four-door Aston models, but the underpinnings are fairly modern. They haven’t confirmed this yet, but under the skin, the Lagonda is most likely identical to the Rapide S. Deliveries will begin from early next year.

Oman Air’s General Manager Marketing, Mohammed Al Shikely, announced the partnership, saying: “Oman Air has developed an enviable global reputation as a luxury airline that offers innovation and the highest quality in every aspect of its operations, so we are the perfect partner to assist Aston Martin in heat-testing its stunning new Lagonda. Furthermore, our highly professional cargo division offers all the expertise needed to deliver the car from its factory in the UK to Oman, and back again in perfect condition once the testing has been completed.”