Gulf Air, the national airline of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Sultanate of Oman, is this summer, offering travellers from Istanbul increased opportunities and great incentives to fly to the Arabian Gulf – and beyond.
The airline has added a new flight each Tuesday, bringing to four, the number of flights a week from Istanbul to Bahrain – and beyond. This is coupled with a summer savings promotion between June 28 and September 30, 2005, which offers credit vouchers for 30 per cent discount in first and business class as well as selected economy fares which be used on a subsequent journey or for excess baggage on Gulf Air flights.
“Gulf Air offers great timings, excellent connections and an exceptional service into the Gulf and on to the Indian Sub Continent, Far East and Australia,” said Vice President Sales and Marketing Danny Barranger.
Flights leave Istanbul on Monday, Tuesday and Saturday at 14.55 arriving 18.45 and on Friday it departs 16.10 arriving 20.15.
“We are the region’s largest operator of Airbus A320s and we have just completed an upgrading programme of these medium range aircraft to reflect the new and bolder Gulf Air brand image that was introduced in 2003 and to provide even greater levels of passenger comfort,” said Barranger.
The A320s underwent a full refurbishment, which included exterior painting in the new livery and fully refitting of the interiors. The interior refurbishment includes new carpets, curtains, seat fabrics, pillows, bulkheads and seat belts, as well as facelifts to the lavatories and galleys.
Gulf Air is continually seeking ways to enhance passenger comfort and provide world class service to all passengers
“The new look and feel of the A320s means our travellers will have a higher standard of comfort, especially in business class, which we believe offers a service that is equal to the first class service offered on other regional carriers, “ said Barranger.
For onward connections to their ultimate destination in the Gulf Air network, premium passengers can first enjoy the comforts of Bahrain’s award winning lounge before boarding one of the recently refurbished Airbus A330 aircraft.
“First Class passengers can then sit back – or lie back in the comfort of our new sky beds while enjoying the Award winning cuisine personally prepared and served by our unique Sky Chefs,” said Barranger.
In business class every dish undergoes meticulous inspection. For those travelling with youngsters, another Gulf Air innovation – the Sky Nanny – will keep them happy and contented throughout the flight.
About Gulf Air
Gulf Air was founded in 1950. Today, it is owned by the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and is the only truly pan Gulf carrier in the region. The airline’s network stretches from Europe to Asia and covers 44 cities in 30 countries. The fleet is one of the most modern in the Middle East and comprises 34 aircraft.
The airline, in the last year of a three-year strategic recovery programme, headed by President and Chief Executive James Hogan, is making rapid strides towards regaining profitability in 2005 and aims to further evolve by taking its renowned cultural strengths, which have been gained over more than half a century, into a global environment.
The dramatic turnaround in Gulf Air’s fortunes has won international recognition. In January 2004, The Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) presented the airline with the prestigious Airline Turnaround of the Year Award for 2003. Gulf Air was also the recipient of the 2003 Platinum Award for the Best Airline in the Middle East and North Africa, recognising the airline’s commitment to service excellence.
Winner - Middle East and North African Platinum Best Airline Travel Award 2004
Winner - Skytrax Most Improved Airline Award 2004
Winner - Skytrax Best First Class Onboard Food Category 2004
Winner - Skytrax Best Business Class Check-in Category 2004
Official Airline and Sponsor of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2005
