Gulf Air seeks approval for direct flights between Bahrain and US

Jeffrey Goh, CEO of Gulf Air, highlighted during an event in October that while there are plans for US flights, several challenges have been encountered. He suggested that operations might commence when conditions are favorable, possibly indicating a return in 2025.

Historically, Gulf Air operated routes from Bahrain to New York's JFK Airport via various international stops due to refueling needs with older aircraft models like the Airbus A340-300. The market demand was limited; as noted by Simple Flying's James Pearson, only about 7,000 passengers traveled this route up until July of this year.

The application submitted by Gulf Air did not disclose financial details or government contributions publicly as they were filed under confidentiality requests.

The backdrop of this move involves past disputes where major US carriers accused Middle Eastern airlines of receiving unfair subsidies. This issue was resolved in 2018 with agreements on financial transparency under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

While direct services are yet to be realized, Gulf Air maintains a robust codeshare network with American Airlines covering multiple US destinations and collaborates with Etihad Airways for routes connecting Bahrain and Washington Dulles International Airport via Abu Dhabi.

Additionally, Bahrain's recent achievement of a Category 1 rating from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirms compliance with international safety standards. This milestone allows Bahraini airlines more freedom in establishing direct services or codeshare agreements with US carriers.