Gulf Air’s origins date back to the 1950s. Today, the carrier is a key airline in the Middle East, connecting passengers around the world.
Are you buckled in and prepared for takeoff as we dive deeper into the world of this Middle Eastern airline? In no particular order, here are 15 key facts about Gulf Air, covering topics such as its history and current operations.
1. When was Gulf Air founded?
Gulf Air was founded in 1950 by British-born pilot and entrepreneur Freddie Bosworth, originally under the name Gulf Aviation. The airline began with just one aircraft.
In 1951, British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC), which later merged with British European Airways (BEA) in the 1970s to form British Airways, became a major shareholder. The airline was eventually renamed Gulf Air.
2. Gulf Air is the national flag carrier of Bahrain
As the sole airline operating from the country, Gulf Air holds the distinction of being Bahrain’s national flag carrier.
3. The airline’s main hub
Gulf Air has been based at Bahrain International Airport since its inception in 1950.
4. Gulf Air serves over 50 destinations
The airline serves destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
5. The airline was once part of a joint venture
In 1973, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates became the collective owners of Gulf Air.
However, since Qatar, Oman, and the UAE have now established their respective national airlines, Bahrain has become the sole owner of the airline.
6. Gulf Air has many aircraft in its fleet
According to the airline’s official website, Gulf Air’s fleet includes Airbus A320-200s, Airbus A320neos, Airbus A321-200s, Airbus A321LRs, Airbus A321neos, and Boeing 787-9s.
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7. The airline has a frequent flyer program
Gulf Air’s frequent flyer program is called Falconflyer. It was launched in 1994.
The frequent flyer program offers a variety of benefits and multiple membership tiers.
8. Gulf Air’s livery features a distinctive falcon
Gulf Air’s logo and aircraft livery prominently display a falcon, a bird deeply revered in Middle Eastern culture.
This symbol reflects the airline’s Arabian heritage and represents the qualities associated with the falcon.
9. The airline’s business class product is called Falcon Gold
Gulf Air’s Falcon Gold product offers lie-flat seats, lounge access, and many other benefits.
In some cases, passengers can upgrade to Falcon Gold for around £500.00/$650.00. If you want to know how this is possible, check out the video below.
10. Gulf Air is known for its traditional Arabian hospitality
Gulf Air is fondly known for its traditional Arabian hospitality, including its warm, attentive service and Arabic cuisine offered onboard.
11. The airline has won numerous awards
Over the years, Gulf Air has received numerous awards, including several accolades from Skytrax, such as the title of Best Airline Staff in the Middle East.
12. Gulf Air operates a special Sky Nanny service
The airline’s Sky Nanny service is available for families who are looking for assistance with childcare onboard flights.
The service was first launched in 1990.
13. The airline was the first shirt sponsor of Chelsea FC
Between 1983 and 1985, Gulf Air sponsored Chelsea FC. The airline’s logo was featured on the Premier League team’s jerseys during matches.
Gulf Air was looking to increase brand visibility in Europe at the time.
14. Gulf Air is not a part of an airline alliance
As of this writing, the airline is not a part of any airline alliance.
15. The airline has been involved in numerous incidents
Gulf Air has experienced several major incidents throughout its history.
One of the most recent significant events was the crash of Gulf Air Flight 072 in August 2000 close to Bahrain International Airport, which tragically resulted in the loss of all 143 passengers and crew on board.
This article was updated on October 9, 2024.
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