Dubai is Bahrain Air's launch destination

Upon arrival, flight 2B101 was greeted at Dubai International with a water canon salute, followed by a welcoming ceremony for the arriving delegation. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), and Chairman of Dubai Airports, received the Bahraini delegation which was led by Ibrahim A. Al Hamer, Bahrain Air's Managing Director, several members of the airline's board of directors, media persons, and other dignitaries.

Sheikh Ahmed and Al Hamer, joined by Mohammed Ahli, Director General of DCAA and CEO of Air Traffic Services, Dubai, and representatives of the carrier, together cut a cake to celebrate the launch of Bahrain Air's inaugural flight. Sheikh Ahmed said, "I welcome you all to Dubai and assure you of all our support at Dubai International. I wish Bahrain Air great success in the coming future."

Bahrain Air will operate twice daily flights between Bahrain and Dubai through its winter schedule between February and March this year. Flight 2B102 will depart from Dubai at 0955 and arrive in Bahrain 1015, while flight 2B110 will depart Dubai at 2220 and arrive in Bahrain at 2240. Flights 2B101 and 2B109 will depart Bahrain at 0700 and 1925 and arrive in Dubai at 0910 and 2135 respectively. The carrier will operate the A320 aircraft with a two-class configuration on this route.

Commenting on the launch of the service, Al Hamer said Bahrain Air aims to set new standards in its class while tapping the huge base of passengers for AGCC and African destinations. "Initially, the airline will cover 13 destinations and 140 flights weekly across the region," he explained.

He said, "Bahrain Air will offer on all its routes a two-class service (Business and Economy) and will offer its premium class passengers, complementary snacks and refreshments as well as invitation to Business Class Lounges at all departure airports. All Bahrain Air premium class passengers will be automatically enrolled in the airlines' Frequent Flyer Programme."

Mohammed Bin Ghannam, General Manager, Airline Development Department of Aviation Unit at Dubai Airports said, "We are delighted to welcome Bahrain Air to Dubai as the first scheduled airline to start operation at Dubai International in 2008. As a premium low cost carrier, Bahrain Air is a unique addition to our list of 120 airlines serving Dubai International, and will cater to the specific needs of a large number of passengers."

He added that the new service will increase convenience for passengers while also providing a boost to regional travel and trade.