Gulf Air Finalizes Order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Expand Global Reach

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has taken a major step in strengthening its international operations by finalizing a firm order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for an additional three aircraft. This development comes as part of the airline’s long-term strategy to expand its global network and enhance passenger experience. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow, highlighting the growing ambitions of the Bahrain-based carrier in the competitive aviation market.

The new order adds three 787 Dreamliners to Gulf Air’s previous commitment from July 2025, bringing the airline’s total order book for the versatile widebody jets to 17 aircraft. The Dreamliners, known for their fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and passenger comfort, are expected to play a key role in supporting the airline’s long-haul expansion plans.

The agreement was signed by Martin Gauss, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Air, and Brad McMullen, Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing. Khalid Husain Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that the acquisition of the Boeing 787 Dreamliners marks a “significant advancement in Gulf Air’s long-term fleet development efforts.” Taqi highlighted that the new aircraft will accelerate the airline’s strategy to increase capacity, strengthen long-haul operations, and deliver a more sustainable travel experience to passengers.

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, also praised the partnership, noting that Gulf Air’s selection of the 787 Dreamliner underscores the aircraft’s efficiency, passenger comfort, and alignment with sustainability goals. She emphasized that the Dreamliner would serve as the cornerstone of Gulf Air’s fleet for years to come, supporting the airline’s vision of operational excellence and global expansion.

The 787 Dreamliner, widely recognized for its advanced aerodynamics and fuel-efficient design, allows airlines to operate longer routes with lower environmental impact while offering passengers a quieter, more comfortable travel experience. Gulf Air’s investment in these next-generation aircraft signals a renewed commitment to strengthening Bahrain’s position as a key player in the international aviation market.

The delivery schedule for the new 787s has not been disclosed, but the order is expected to enhance Gulf Air’s capacity for premium long-haul routes, providing travelers with improved connectivity and comfort. By expanding its widebody fleet with Boeing’s state-of-the-art aircraft, Gulf Air is set to solidify its presence on the global stage, combining modern technology with operational efficiency to meet growing international travel demands.

This fleet expansion comes amid a competitive landscape in the Middle East, where carriers are investing heavily in modern aircraft and sustainable aviation solutions to attract international travelers. Gulf Air’s commitment to the Boeing 787 Dreamliner underscores its focus on both passenger experience and environmental responsibility, aligning with the global push for greener aviation.

With the addition of 15 new Dreamliners, Gulf Air is poised to accelerate its growth, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen its long-haul network, reinforcing its status as a major regional carrier with a strong international footprint.