Gulf Air is charting a bold new course for its future with a landmark agreement to purchase 12 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, alongside options for a further six — a move that signals the Bahrain-based carrier’s clear ambitions to expand its international network and modernise its fleet. Once finalised, this latest order will bring Gulf Air’s firm commitment to 14 of the state-of-the-art widebody jets, further reinforcing its status as a key player in the Gulf aviation sector and supporting up to 30,000 jobs across the United States.
The signing ceremony was attended by high-profile figures including Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, alongside Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO, Stephanie Pope, and Gulf Air Group Chairman, Khalid Taqi.
“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. We are proud to deepen our partnership with Boeing and reaffirm our commitment to positioning Bahrain as a key global aviation hub.” – Khalid Taqi, Gulf Air Group Chairman
Gulf Air’s growth story
The new Dreamliners will further strengthen Gulf Air’s long-haul network, which already spans over 50 destinations across Asia, Europe and North America. With 10 Dreamliners currently in service, the aircraft has become the backbone of the airline’s long-haul strategy, valued for its fuel efficiency, impressive range, and enhanced passenger comfort.
Recent months have seen Gulf Air expand its route map with new services to key cities such as Guangzhou, Manchester, and Rome, reflecting a strategy focused on both emerging and established markets. These new aircraft will allow the airline to further develop frequencies, add new destinations, and enhance connectivity from its Manama hub.
Travellers flying with Gulf Air can look forward to the Dreamliner’s superior onboard experience. As the aircraft of choice for many of the world’s top carriers, the 787 boasts the largest windows of any widebody, advanced humidity controls, lower cabin altitude for reduced jetlag, and turbulence-reducing technology.
Positioning Bahrain at the heart of global aviation
Looking ahead, Gulf Air’s growth plans align closely with Bahrain’s ambitions to enhance its standing as a global aviation hub. The airline’s modernisation efforts dovetail with broader investments in Bahrain’s aviation infrastructure, including the recently upgraded Bahrain International Airport, which offers a premium travel experience and improved connectivity.
This latest order reflects Gulf Air’s long-term commitment to sustainability, with the 787 Dreamliner offering a significant reduction in emissions and noise compared to older widebody models. Sustainability will remain a core focus as the airline moves forward, with continued investments in new technology, operational efficiencies, and environmentally responsible initiatives.
“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.” – Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Since its first DC-3 took to the skies in 1961, Gulf Air has taken delivery of 37 Boeing aircraft, a relationship that spans over six decades.
Today, with the Dreamliner firmly at the centre of its fleet strategy, Gulf Air is set to take its next ambitious leap to connect more people, across more places, with greater comfort, efficiency, and style.
