Gulf Air has agreed to purchase 12 additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for a further six aircraft, as the Bahraini flag carrier looks to strengthen its international network and modernise its widebody fleet.
Once finalised, the order will take Gulf Air’s firm backlog of 787s to 14 aircraft and will support an estimated 30,000 jobs across the US, according to Boeing.
Khalid Taqi, chairman of Gulf Air Group, said: “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.
“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.”
Gulf Air already operates 10 787 Dreamliners, which serve as the backbone of its long-haul operations across Asia, Europe and North America.
The airline, which connects over 50 destinations, said the expanded Dreamliner fleet will enable it to both grow its route network and enhance the in-flight experience for passengers.
Boeing highlighted that the 787 family has opened over 425 new nonstop routes since its debut in 2011 and carried more than one billion passengers worldwide.
Known for its fuel efficiency, improved cabin pressure, large windows, and turbulence-reducing technology, the Dreamliner has been embraced by long-haul operators for its sustainability and comfort credentials.
Stephanie Pope, president and chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “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. 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.”
Gulf Air’s association with Boeing dates back to the delivery of its first DC-3 in 1961. Since then, the airline has taken delivery of 37 Boeing aircraft, including its existing 787 fleet.
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