Gulf Air Group Reports Strong 2024 Performance Across Subsidiaries
Manama: Bahrain's Gulf Air Group (GFG) reported its 2024 performance, highlighting achievements in passenger traffic, network expansion, and strategic initiatives across its subsidiaries: Gulf Air, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), and Gulf Aviation Academy (GAA). The group's efforts have reinforced Bahrain's aviation sector and contributed to the Kingdom's economic growth.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Gulf Air expanded its network by introducing new seasonal and structural routes, resulting in a 5.4% increase in passenger numbers, reaching 6.2 million in 2024 compared to 5.9 million in 2023. The airline added new destinations, including AlUla in KSA, Shanghai and Guangzhou in China, Mykonos/Rhodes in Greece, Geneva in Switzerland, and Munich in Germany, while resuming services to Baghdad and Najaf in Iraq. Gulf Air also increased flight frequencies to key destinations such as Doha, Muscat, Manchester, Milan, Rome, and Singapore. The fleet was strengthened with two new A321NEO aircraft, bringing the total to 42. Gulf Air signed 23 partnership agreements and expanded its codeshare network to 20 partners, including a new agreement with Azerbaijan Airlines and an expanded partnership with Thai Airways.
Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) recorded a 7.3% increase in passenger traffic, welcoming 9.4 million passengers in 2024 compared to 8.7 million in 2023. Cargo handling saw an 11.2% increase, reaching over 390,000 tonnes. Flight movements totaled over 98,000. BAC launched the first phase of the Express Cargo Village, enhancing cargo handling capabilities. BAC's network grew with the addition of Fly Jinnah, Iraqi Airways, and Ajet. The company received industry recognition with awards, including a 5-Star Skytrax rating for the fourth consecutive year and accolades at the 2024 Aviation Achievement Awards.
Gulf Aviation Academy (GAA) achieved significant milestones, including a partnership with Riyadh Air for cabin crew training and ANAC accreditation from Brazil. GAA introduced B737 and B787 Full Flight Simulators and partnered with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for advanced training. The academy earned ISO 9001:2015 certification and an 'Outstanding' rating from Bahrain's Education and Training Quality Authority. GAA also expanded its regional presence with a training agreement with Dammam Airport Company (DACO).
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