London Heathrow-Bahrain
Bahrain’s credentials as a Gulf gateway have been boosted following the arrival of new B777-300ERs. The island’s national airline, Gulf Air, is leasing four of these large craft from Indian carrier Jet Airways. They are fitted with fully-flat beds in their premium cabins. The introduction of the B777s harks back to the days when Gulf Air introduced a fleet of “five-star” Tristars in the mid-1970s. In those days, before the likes of Emirates, Etihad and Qatar appeared on the scene, they enhanced its global standing. The carrier deliberately fitted far fewer seats into its Tristar to offer passengers more space. Whereas first class during that time wouldn’t be considered special by today’s standards, because products have improved so much, passengers seated in economy never had it so good. Their spacious cabin even included a stand-up bar at the back of the plane. Now it would seem that the B777s, which will offer some of the best premium seating of any Gulf airline, are set to boost the Bahrain carrier’s ratings in the same way. Bjorn Naf, chief executive of Gulf Air, says: “In times like these, brand value sells and Gulf Air has been in the business for 58 years. “With other brands, such as Etihad, you have to spend an awful lot of money in the marketplace to build them. In the past we lost a little of that brand value but now we are spending money to tell people we are back again. The B777 first class suites and the business and economy seats really position us.” Besides flying to and from Bahrain itself, the island state can tap passengers from its neighbour. Bjorn Naf says: “Saudi Arabia has six million people just across the causeway – our ‘home market’, as we call it.”What’s on offer?
The 312-seater B777-300ERs have cabins identical to when they flew with Jet Airways. There are eight first class suites, configured 1-2-1, and these have fully-flat beds with a personal wardrobe. Business class comprises 30 fully-flat seats arranged in a herringbone layout (1-2-1). Economy class is nine across (3-3-3) and Gulf Air says there is a little more legroom here along with a 130-degree recline and a hammock headrest to support your head and neck.What Bahrain flights will the aircraft be used on?
The B777-300ERs are currently operating the London-Bahrain flight GF2 (departing at 1000, arriving at 1835) and the Bahrain-London flight GF7 (depart 0125, arrive 0625). From the beginning of May, the B777s will be extended to operate the carrier’s second daily flights, GF8 from London (2230-0705) and GF5 from Doha (1555-2100). Gulf Air’s third daily service on the route, GF6 from London (2025-0515) and GF3 from Doha (1005-1520), will remain operated by an A330.Further afield
Gulf Air is extending its B777 operations east to cover Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Connections at Bahrain are excellent for London-originating passengers bound for either of these two major cities. Right now you can take the B777 from Bahrain to Bangkok on flight GF150 (2045-0750), returning Bangkok to Bahrain with GF151 (1020-1315). You can also take the B777 from Bahrain to Kuala Lumpur taking GF280 (2040-0940), returning from Kuala Lumpur on GF282 (1130-1340). Initially, the B777 will operate these flights five times a week and from July 6 it will be a daily operation. Regional routes will also be covered by the B777. These will be of use if you plan on breaking your journey in Bahrain. Plans aren’t completely finalised but it appears from the timetable that from May, the B777s will operate from Bahrain to Cairo on flight GF71 (1110-1425), returning on GF70 (1540-1845). Also from May, the B777-300ERs are expected to serve Riyadh from Bahrain with services GF163 departing at 1950 and arriving at 2100, and GF162 departing at 1745 and arriving at 1855.Prices
Gulf Air has a continual stream of promotions. At the moment, in the UK full-fare economy passengers are upgraded to business class, while those paying the full business class fare get to go first class. This deal covers many Gulf Air flights. It will also cover the B777 flights from London to Bahrain and on to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Tickets must be booked at least three days ahead, no later than April 30, and travel must be completed by May 31. There is no minimum-stay restriction and bookings can be changed for US$100. Tickets booked in economy class are non-refundable while those in business class can be cancelled for a US$200 fee. Visit gulfair.com
