Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has officially launched a new direct flight route connecting Bahrain International Airport (BAH) to London Gatwick Airport (LGW). This move marks a significant milestone in the airline’s long-term strategy to expand its network and enhance its presence on the global stage. The new route not only strengthens Gulf Air’s ties with the United Kingdom but also offers greater flexibility and convenience for passengers traveling between Bahrain and one of Europe’s most dynamic cities.
The inaugural flight took place on March 30, 2025, with the service operating three times a week—on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Gulf Air will be using its state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft for these flights. These aircraft are equipped with a two-class configuration, offering 26 seats in Business Class and 256 seats in Economy Class, designed to provide passengers with an unparalleled level of comfort throughout their journey.
The flight departs from Bahrain at 01:45 local time and arrives at Gatwick at 06:55, ensuring passengers a smooth and timely arrival. On the return journey, the flight leaves London Gatwick at 11:25, with a scheduled landing back in Bahrain at 20:00, giving travelers ample time to catch connecting flights or settle into their destination. This new route enhances the convenience for business and leisure travelers alike, giving them a reliable and efficient option for flying between the two countries.
Strengthening UK-Bahrain Connectivity
With this new route, Gulf Air is significantly enhancing its service offering between Bahrain and the UK. London Gatwick becomes the second major gateway for the airline in the UK, complementing its existing operations at London Heathrow Airport. By expanding into Gatwick, one of the UK’s busiest and most popular airports, Gulf Air is offering more travel options and flexibility for passengers traveling between the two regions.
The UK remains one of Gulf Air’s key markets, and this expansion allows the airline to further solidify its position as a key player in the competitive European market. According to Stephanie Wear, VP of Aviation Development at London Gatwick, the airline’s entry into the airport is a highly positive development. She expressed excitement about the new service, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome Gulf Air to London Gatwick. This service will not only provide excellent connectivity to the Middle East but also enhance options for travelers heading to London and the south of England.”
The move to Gatwick also opens up more travel opportunities for passengers looking to access other major cities in Europe. With its strategic location, Gatwick serves as a hub for numerous international connections, and Gulf Air’s new service will further integrate Bahrain and the UK into a growing network of seamless travel routes.
Catering to Business and Leisure Travelers
The launch of the London Gatwick route is strategically timed to cater to both business and leisure travelers. Gulf Air has always prioritized delivering top-notch service to its passengers, and the addition of this new route is a testament to the airline’s commitment to providing convenience, efficiency, and comfort. The airline’s Chief Customer Experience Officer, Hanadi AlAali, emphasized the importance of Gatwick as a key hub for travelers to and from London. “London Gatwick is not only a major international hub but also a gateway to both business opportunities and cultural attractions in London and surrounding regions,” she stated.
By offering direct flights to Gatwick, Gulf Air is providing travelers with more choice and flexibility, whether they are visiting the UK for work, leisure, or personal reasons. The direct connection between Bahrain and London will particularly benefit professionals with tight schedules, as it provides them with more options for direct flights without having to navigate through multiple layovers or connecting airports.
Furthermore, the airline’s Dreamliner aircraft ensures a luxurious and efficient experience for passengers, offering an onboard experience designed for comfort and productivity. Business travelers will appreciate the premium amenities available in Business Class, including flatbed seats, a spacious cabin, and top-tier services. Meanwhile, leisure travelers will benefit from Gulf Air’s reputation for excellent hospitality and customer care.
Timely Launch for Formula 1 Enthusiasts
The timing of Gulf Air’s new service is particularly advantageous for Formula 1 enthusiasts. Bahrain is home to one of the most popular Grand Prix events on the F1 calendar—the Bahrain Grand Prix. The race is scheduled to take place in April 2025, and the launch of the Gatwick service allows fans to travel directly to Bahrain for the event. Gulf Air’s convenient schedule means that racegoers can easily access Bahrain’s world-class racing facilities, taking advantage of the airline’s well-timed service to attend the event without having to make multiple stopovers.
The Formula 1 race is just one example of the kind of high-profile events that Gulf Air aims to support through its new routes. The airline is actively working to position itself as the go-to carrier for major international events and sports enthusiasts, offering a seamless travel experience for visitors arriving in Bahrain for key cultural and sporting events. Gulf Air’s move also complements Bahrain’s growing status as a major sports tourism destination.
Gulf Air’s Broader Network Expansion
The launch of the London Gatwick route is part of Gulf Air’s larger strategy to expand its global network and increase its capacity. The airline continues to bolster its presence in key international markets, providing passengers with more options to travel to destinations in Asia, Europe, and beyond. By strategically adding new routes and enhancing its fleet with modern aircraft like the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, Gulf Air is ensuring that it remains competitive in the rapidly evolving airline industry.
In addition to improving connectivity to the UK, the launch of the Gatwick service will also enhance Gulf Air’s connections to other destinations in the Middle East and Asia, allowing passengers to easily connect to the airline’s extensive network. Gulf Air’s commitment to offering excellent service and innovative travel options ensures that passengers can rely on the airline for both short-haul and long-haul travel.
Conclusion
Gulf Air’s new direct service between London Gatwick and Bahrain marks an exciting development in the airline’s ongoing expansion efforts. By providing a direct, reliable, and efficient travel option for passengers, Gulf Air continues to enhance its reputation as a leading international carrier. This new route not only strengthens Gulf Air’s position in the UK market but also offers passengers a greater choice of travel options for both business and leisure.
As the airline continues to expand its network, Gulf Air is committed to providing passengers with seamless connections, modern amenities, and the high-quality service the airline is known for. Whether traveling for business, pleasure, or a major event like the Bahrain Grand Prix, Gulf Air’s London Gatwick service promises to make international travel more accessible and enjoyable for passengers from all walks of life.
