Gulf Air has announced a major expansion of its long-haul fleet with a new agreement to purchase 12 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, along with options for six more. The move is part of the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen its international network and improve passenger experience.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Joining them were Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, and Khalid Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group.
“This agreement marks a transformative step in Gulf Air’s strategic growth journey as we expand our global footprint and modernize our fleet with one of the industry’s most advanced and efficient aircraft,” said Taqi. “The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has proven to be an exceptional aircraft for our long-haul operations.”
With the new order, Gulf Air’s firm Dreamliner fleet will grow to 14, reinforcing the airline’s ambitions to become a global travel player. The order also supports an estimated 30,000 jobs in the United States, reflecting strong bilateral aviation ties between Bahrain and the U.S.
Gulf Air currently operates 10 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which serve as the backbone of its long-haul routes to over 50 destinations worldwide. With the addition of the new aircraft, the airline plans to expand further across Asia, Europe, and North America, offering travelers more direct and comfortable options.
Stephanie Pope of Boeing highlighted the aircraft’s role in reshaping travel. “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,” she said.
The Boeing 787 is known for redefining the passenger experience on long flights. With its larger windows, lower cabin altitude, improved air quality, and turbulence-reducing technology, the aircraft offers greater comfort and a smoother ride—factors that Gulf Air sees as essential for today’s global traveler.
Since entering service in 2011, the Dreamliner has flown over 1 billion passengers and opened more than 425 new non-stop routes around the world. Gulf Air aims to harness that potential to connect Bahrain with emerging travel hubs and increase tourism and business travel to the Kingdom.
From its first delivery of a DC-3 in 1961 to the present day, Gulf Air has received 37 Boeing aircraft. With the Dreamliner now as its flagship, the airline is positioning itself as a premium carrier offering both innovation and hospitality for long-distance journeys.
As international travel continues to rebound, Gulf Air’s latest investment marks a confident step toward the future of air travel in the Gulf and beyond.
