Gulf Air Secures 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners at Dubai Airshow
Gulf Air and Boeing have officially confirmed a deal for the Bahrain-based airline to acquire 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
This announcement was made on the second day of the Dubai Airshow 2025, where Boeing has already secured agreements with other airlines, including Emirates, Ethiopian Airways, and Air Senegal.
The definitive agreement, finalized on November 18, 2025, includes the option for three additional Dreamliners and concludes earlier negotiations from this year.
In July 2025, Gulf Air had initially revealed plans to purchase 12 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with the possibility of adding six more to their fleet. This deal was facilitated alongside the Trump administration, featuring US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
Throughout the summer of 2025, various Middle Eastern nations entered contracts for Boeing aircraft as part of dealings with President Donald Trump.
A Gulf Air spokesperson emphasized, “This agreement underscores our commitment to fleet modernization, sustainable growth, and enhancing the travel experience for passengers. By bolstering our 787 Dreamliner fleet, we enhance global connectivity while maintaining our longstanding partnership with Boeing.”
Additionally, they stated that this milestone supports the airline’s strategic vision to improve operational efficiency, modernize its fleet with state-of-the-art technology, and strengthen Bahrain’s position as a regional aviation hub.
Gulf Air currently operates a fleet of nine Boeing 787-9s, which are part of the medium-sized Dreamliner series, according to industry analyst reports.
“Gulf Air is making bold strides in expanding its global presence. We are thrilled that the airline has chosen the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as the cornerstone of its fleet today and for years to come. The 787’s enhanced efficiency and passenger comfort align perfectly with Gulf Air’s dedication to sustainability and operational excellence,” noted Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
This aircraft acquisition marks a significant achievement under the leadership of Martin Gauss, who recently took over as CEO of Gulf Air. Gauss previously led airBaltic.
The agreement was signed during the Dubai Airshow, with Gauss and Brad McMullen, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, in attendance.
What do you think about Gulf Air’s expansion strategy and its focus on modernizing its fleet?
