Gulf Air Finalizes Order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners at Dubai Airshow

Gulf Air Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Credit: Boeing.

Gulf Air announced on Nov. 18, that the Bahrain‑based carrier, has finalized a firm order for 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for three additional aircraft, as part of its strategy to expand and modernize its international network.

The deal adds three more Dreamliners to Gulf Air’s commitment made in July, bringing the airline’s total order book to 17 of the versatile widebody jets. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow by Martin Gauss, CEO of Gulf Air, and Brad McMullen, Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

Khalid Husain Taqi, chairman of Gulf Air Group, emphasized the importance of the order: “Today’s signing marks a significant advancement in Gulf Air’s long‑term fleet development efforts. By confirming our acquisition of the Boeing 787 Dreamliners, we are accelerating our strategy to increase capacity, strengthen long‑haul operations, and deliver an elevated, more sustainable travel experience to our passengers. This agreement also builds on the long‑established relationship between Gulf Air and Boeing, a partnership that has supported our growth for decades.”

Expanding Gulf Air’s Global Reach

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, renowned for its fuel efficiency, range, and passenger comfort, is central to Gulf Air’s long‑haul operations. The airline currently operates 10 Dreamliners, connecting more than 50 destinations across Asia, Europe, and the United States. With the new order, Gulf Air is positioned to further strengthen its network and enhance its sustainability goals.

Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, praised the partnership: “Gulf Air is taking exciting steps to expand its global footprint, and we are honored the airline has confirmed the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as the cornerstone of its fleet today and in the decades ahead. The 787’s superior efficiency and passenger comfort fit perfectly with Gulf Air’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence.”

Gulf Air’s current fleet is centered around modern efficiency and passenger comfort, with the airline operating a mix of widebody and narrowbody aircraft. The carrier currently flies 10 Boeing 787‑9 Dreamliners, which serve as its flagship long‑haul jets, connecting Bahrain to destinations across Asia, Europe, and the United States.

In addition, Gulf Air operates Airbus A320 family aircraft, including the A320neo and A321neo, which are deployed on regional and medium‑haul routes throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. This balanced fleet strategy allows Gulf Air to maintain flexibility across its network, combining the fuel‑efficient Dreamliner for long‑haul expansion with the versatile Airbus narrowbodies for shorter, high‑frequency services.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, boeing.com, airwaysmag.com