Gulf air orders 18 Boeing 787 Dreamliners

Dhaka:  Boeing and Gulf Air have agreed on the purchase of 12 787 Dreamliner jets, with options for 6 more, as the Bahrain-based carrier aims to expand its global operations. 

Once finalized, the deal will raise Gulf Air’s confirmed 787 order to 14 aircraft and support approximately 30,000 jobs across the United States

“This agreement marks a transformative step in Gulf Air’s strategic growth journey as we expand our global footprint and modernise our fleet with one of the industry’s most advanced and efficient aircraft,” said Khalid Taqi, chairman of Gulf Air Group. 

“The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has proven to be an exceptional aircraft for our long-haul operations, and this new order reflects our confidence in its performance, passenger appeal and contribution to our sustainability goals.

 We are proud to deepen our partnership with Boeing and reaffirm our commitment to positioning Bahrain as a key global aviation hub.”

The 787 Dreamliner, recognised for its fuel efficiency, range and passenger experience, already serves as the backbone of Gulf Air’s long-haul operations connecting over 50 destinations. With 10 787 airplanes in service, the airline is well-positioned to grow its network, serving new and existing markets across Asia, Europe and the U.S.

“We are excited to build on our more than 60-year partnership with Gulf Air as we deliver the market-leading 787 Dreamliner to help the airline serve more passengers and connect more destinations,” said Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. 

“This investment in the 787 Dreamliner demonstrates Gulf Air’s commitment to new technology and sustainable development, reinforcing Bahrain’s position in the aviation sector.”

The 787 Dreamliner family has transformed global air travel by opening over 425 new nonstop routes and carrying more than 1 billion passengers worldwide since its commercial introduction in 2011. 

As Gulf Air’s flagship airplane, the 787 features the largest windows of any widebody jet, air that is less dry and pressurised at a lower cabin altitude for greater comfort, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride.

From its first DC-3 in 1961, Gulf Air has taken delivery of 37 Boeing airplanes, including the 787 jets currently in its fleet.

-B