Gulf Air, the Kingdom of Bahrain’s national carrier, and Dubai Aerospace Enterprise Ltd. (DAE) have today signed an aircraft lease agreement for five Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft that are scheduled to enter the Gulf carrier’s fleet in 2018. These modern, fuel efficient planes will help Gulf Air expand its network, facilitating the long-term expansion capabilities for the airline's future network requirement.

Gulf Air Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Captain Waleed Abdulhameed Al Alawi commented on the agreement: “Our agreement with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, sees Gulf Air gear up for a landmark moment in our history as we welcome five Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in the coming months. The incoming aircraft represent an important step in our strategic direction towards furthering Gulf Air’s fleet modernization process, enhancing passenger comfort and broadening our network as we look to strengthen our presence across the globe.”

Dubai Aerospace Chief Executive Officer, Firoz Tarapore said: “We are pleased to be in a position to support Gulf Air’s fleet strategy in 2018 as they look to develop their route offering. Leasing these top-of-the-range aircraft underlines Dubai Aerospace Enterprise’s ability to work with customers with varying requirements and is made possible by our long-standing presence in the leasing and finance space. We look forward to supporting one of the Gulf region’s premier airlines as it continues to grow.”

About Gulf Air

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, commenced operations in 1950, becoming one of the first commercial airlines established in the Middle East. Today, Gulf Air is a major international carrier serving 42 cities in 25 countries spanning three continents.

The airline operates double daily flights or more to 10 regional cities, in addition to select destinations in the Indian Subcontinent and Europe, from its hub at Bahrain International Airport. Gulf Air currently serves all its destinations with a combination wide and narrow body fleet totalling 28 modern aircraft with orders for 39 new Boeing and Airbus aircraft due for delivery commencing in early 2018. The modern fleet will herald a new era for Gulf Air as it continues to enhance its product and service offering. Renowned for its traditional Arabian hospitality, evidenced by the airline’s signature family and business friendly products, Gulf Air is committed to being an industry leader and developing products and services that reflect the evolving needs and aspirations of its passengers.

Gulf Air connects Bahrain to the world and, as such, is a key national infrastructure asset, serving as a powerful driver for the economy and supporting the Kingdom’s on-going economic growth.

Gulf Air has been the Title Sponsor of the FORMULA 1 GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX ever since it made history as the first Formula 1 Grand Prix to be held in the Middle East in 2004. In addition, the airline has been Official Carrier of the biennial Bahrain International Airshow since it was first held in 2010.