Gulf Air Expands UK Operations with New London Gatwick to Bahrain Route
ID 301091355 | Air 787 © Evren Kalinbacak | Dreamstime.com
Gulf Air, the national carrier of Bahrain, has announced the launch of direct flights between London Gatwick Airport (LGW) and Bahrain International Airport (BAH), marking an expansion of its UK operations. The new service, set to commence on March 30, 2025, will provide additional connectivity between the Middle East and the UK, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
Route Details and Flight Schedule
The new London Gatwick (LGW) – Bahrain (BAH) route will operate three times per week, offering passengers greater flexibility when traveling between the two destinations. Gulf Air will deploy its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for the route, ensuring a comfortable long-haul experience with:
- Two-class configuration (Falcon Gold Business and Economy Class)
- Lie-flat seats in Falcon Gold Business Class
- Personal entertainment screens in all cabins
- Enhanced fuel efficiency and lower emissions
The scheduled flight timings are as follows:
- Departure from BAH: 13:40 local time | Arrival at LGW: 18:55 local time
- Departure from LGW: 22:00 local time | Arrival at BAH: 06:45 local time (+1 day)
This new service complements Gulf Air’s existing London Heathrow (LHR) – Bahrain route, strengthening its UK presence while offering passengers an alternative gateway to London.
Strategic Importance of the Route
London remains a key market for Gulf Air due to its strong business ties, tourism demand, and expatriate connections. The addition of London Gatwick (LGW) to Gulf Air’s network aligns with the airline’s growth strategy to expand access between the UK and the Middle East.
Key benefits of the new service:
- Increased accessibility for UK travelers heading to Bahrain and the Gulf region
- Improved options for business travelers and expatriates commuting between the UK and Bahrain
- More competitive fare options by introducing additional capacity to the London market
Competition and Market Expansion
Gulf Air’s new Gatwick route places it in direct competition with other Middle Eastern carriers, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways, which already serve multiple London airports. However, Gulf Air differentiates itself by offering nonstop service to Bahrain, positioning the country as a transit hub for travelers heading to the broader Middle East and Asia.
In addition to business and leisure travelers, Gulf Air expects to attract passengers connecting to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and India, key markets that contribute to Bahrain’s growing aviation sector.
Enhancing Bahrain’s Aviation Connectivity
The launch of flights to London Gatwick is part of Gulf Air’s broader expansion plan, which includes:
- Upgrading its fleet with more fuel-efficient aircraft
- Enhancing connectivity through its Bahrain hub
- Expanding its global network to include more European destinations
Bahrain International Airport has also recently undergone a $1.1 billion terminal expansion, increasing capacity and enhancing passenger services, further strengthening the country’s role as a key transit hub in the region.
Bottom Line
Gulf Air’s new London Gatwick to Bahrain route is a strategic addition to its network, providing more choices for travelers between the UK and the Middle East. With three weekly flights aboard the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, passengers can expect a premium travel experience with enhanced comfort and convenience.
By expanding its UK footprint, Gulf Air aims to increase competition, improve connectivity, and attract a broader customer base, reinforcing Bahrain’s status as an emerging aviation hub in the region. As demand for travel between Europe and the Gulf continues to rise, this route is poised to become a key contributor to Gulf Air’s long-term growth strategy.
