Overview
Gulf Air was established in 1950 and is currently operating from its headquarters based in Manama, Bahrain. Its primary hub is located at the Bahrain International Airport. With a fleet size of 38, the airline has scheduled flights to over 40 destinations. Having the Gulf Air Frequent Flyer Programme, the airline does not really have a member lounge per se. Rather, it has the First and Business Class Lounge.
Company Profile
Gulf Air is actually the Kingdom of Bahrain’s official flag carrier. The scheduled services operated by the airline reach the continents of Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and even the Far East. The company logo shows off a golden falcon.
The airline is not really part of any airline alliance, unlike most airlines in the industry today. However, it is actually a part of the Oneworld global explorer fare. Gulf Air gas extensive codeshare agreements as well as special partnerships with other airline companies, including Oman Air’s Frequent Flyer Programs as well as Jet Airways.
At present, the airline is refurbishing all of its aircraft models so that its fleet would be up to par with the new standards. Changes and modifications include improved VOD systems as well as improved seats. The airline has the reputation of giving a lot of focus on the maintenance of its aircrafts.
History
Gulf Air did not really start as “Gulf Air”. Upon its establishment back in 1950, its founder, Freddie Bosworth, registered the company as Gulf Aviation, a private shareholding company. Gulf Air is one of the oldest ever carriers established in the Middle East.
Over the years, a number of companies became major shareholders of the company, including British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC). This led to the expansion of the airline’s flights to several destinations all over the world. But come 1973, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman, and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi purchased the shares of BOAC. As a result, the Foundation Treaty was furnished and signed the following year, giving each of the four states 25% of the company. This was also the time when Gulf Aviation became Gulf Air.
Gulf Air Fleet
The airline’s fleet is comprised of Airbus and Boeing aircraft models, namely:
- Airbus: A319-112, A320-212, A321-211, A330-200, A330-300, and A340-300
- Boeing: 777-300ER and 787-8
Gulf Air Destinations
- Africa: Egypt and Sudan
- Asia: Bahrain, Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Malaysia, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, People’s Republic of China, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen
- Europe: Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, and United Kingdom
