Washington: Gulf Air, the national carrier of Bahrain, has finalized a $4.6 billion deal with Boeing to purchase 18 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. This acquisition aims to modernize Gulf Air's fleet and expand its route network while utilizing engines from GE Aerospace to boost operational performance and sustainability.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the agreement was signed during the official visit of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain's Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to Washington. This visit highlights the strengthening economic and trade ties between Bahrain and the United States.
The signing ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy and Chairman of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company; Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce; Howard Lutnick, U.S. Secretary of Commerce; Shaikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Ambassador of Bahrain to the United States; and Shaikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, CEO of Mumtalakat.
Khalid Hussain Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group, mentioned that the order of the 787 Dreamliner is a testament to Gulf Air's growth and development strategy, aiming to increase passenger capacity by over 20%. He emphasized that this investment supports the airline's focus on fuel efficiency, sustainability, and passenger comfort, and reflects strong Bahrain-US aviation relations.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is renowned for its fuel efficiency and advanced technologies. The new aircraft are set to bolster Gulf Air's long-term operations, expansion plans, and sustainability objectives.
Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, expressed enthusiasm for the extended partnership with Gulf Air. She noted that the additional 787s will allow the airline to expand its passenger reach and destination offerings, thus reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.
In addition to the purchase agreement, Gulf Air and Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the localization of aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) operations in Bahrain. This MoU signifies both parties' dedication to forming strategic partnerships for establishing top-tier MRO capabilities locally, promoting job creation, and enhancing local aviation maintenance talent.
This agreement with Boeing aligns with Gulf Air Group's strategy to establish Bahrain as a prominent regional aviation hub, supporting the Kingdom's objectives of sustainability, economic diversification, and enhanced international air connectivity.