WASHINGTON- Boeing (BA) and Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air (GF), have announced a significant purchase agreement for 12 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, with options for six additional units. This order strengthens Gulf Air’s long-haul capabilities from Bahrain International Airport (BAH) and elevates its strategic global expansion plans.
Once finalized, the deal will increase Gulf Air’s firm 787 Dreamliner fleet to 14, supporting approximately 30,000 jobs across the United States.
The signing ceremony was attended by Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope, and Gulf Air Group Chairman Khalid Taqi.

Gulf Air New Boeing 787 Order
This latest commitment marks a pivotal phase in Gulf Air’s growth strategy, aimed at expanding its global footprint and enhancing fleet efficiency.
With this deal, Gulf Air plans to build an all-787 widebody fleet that could total 18 aircraft, advancing its competitive edge on international routes spanning Asia, Europe, and the United States.
Gulf Air currently operates 10 Boeing 787s, which form the backbone of its long-haul services. The Dreamliner is favored for its fuel efficiency, extended range, and superior passenger experience.
Chairman Khalid Taqi emphasized that the aircraft supports the airline’s sustainability targets while reinforcing Bahrain’s aspirations to emerge as a key aviation hub in the Gulf region.
Boeing and Gulf Air share a partnership that spans over six decades. Since receiving its first Boeing DC-3 in 1961, Gulf Air has taken delivery of 37 Boeing aircraft, solidifying the alliance between the two companies.

Executive Remarks
Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said,
We are excited to build on our more than 60-year partnership with Gulf Air as we deliver the market-leading 787 Dreamliner to help the airline serve more passengers and connect more destinations.
This investment in the 787 Dreamliner demonstrates Gulf Air’s commitment to new technology and sustainable development, reinforcing Bahrain’s position in the aviation sector.”
Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes
While Khalid Taqi, chairman of Gulf Air Group, stated:
This agreement marks a transformative step in Gulf Air’s strategic growth journey as we expand our global footprint and modernize our fleet with one of the industry’s most advanced and efficient aircraft.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has proven to be an exceptional aircraft for our long-haul operations, and this new order reflects our confidence in its performance, passenger appeal and contribution to our sustainability goals. We are proud to deepen our partnership with Boeing and reaffirm our commitment to positioning Bahrain as a key global aviation hub.”
Khalid Taqi, chairman of Gulf Air Group

Boeing 787 Dreamliner: Features and Global Impact
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner has revolutionized long-haul air travel since its entry into service in 2011. Globally, it has enabled the launch of over 425 new nonstop routes and carried more than 1 billion passengers. Key features of the 787 include:
- The largest windows of any widebody aircraft.
- Lower cabin altitude with more humid air enhances passenger comfort.
- Advanced technology that detects and mitigates turbulence for smoother flights.
Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, highlighted that this new order showcases Gulf Air’s commitment to modern aviation technology and sustainability. The investment further consolidates Bahrain’s status within the global aviation sector.

Boeing’s Role in Aerospace and the U.S. Economy
Boeing remains a cornerstone of the U.S. aerospace industry, being one of the nation’s top exporters and a leader in commercial aviation, defense, and space systems.
Operating in over 150 countries, Boeing drives innovation through a robust workforce and global supplier network.
The company’s collaboration with Gulf Air not only underscores a long-standing partnership but also reinforces Boeing’s influence on job creation and economic growth in the United States, with 30,000 jobs tied to this latest order.
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