Gulf Air celebrates 55th birthday

In doing so it reconfirms its position as the elder statesman and pioneer of the Middle East aviation industry, while demonstrating that 'age' is no barrier to enthusiasm and innovation.

'There are not many airlines in the world today that can match our heritage and tradition,' says James Hogan, President and Chief Executive. 'More importantly there aren't many airlines that are as healthy and dynamic as we are!'

The airline chose to celebrate the occasion quietly with a number of staff events around the network.

'We are saving our energy for bigger celebrations in the coming weeks, when the innovation continues with the unveiling of the first of our upgraded and enhanced Airbus A330s followed by our sponsorship of the region's foremost sporting event, the Gulf Air Bahrain Formual1 Grand Prix and thereafter the announcement of our financial results for 2004,' he said.

Hogan added that the airline had come a long way in 55 years - from small-scale commuter service to world class airline.

'However, be it five or 50 destinations, seven-seater planes or state-of-the-art passenger jets, two things have remained constant - an adherence to traditional hospitality and a commitment to the latest aviation technology,' he said.

Innovation is not going to stop either. In the past two years Gulf Air has introduced award-winning Sky Chefs and Sky Nannies, a new brand identity and later award-winning lounges - to name but a few of the major achievements.
'Far from slowing up, the pace of change at Gulf Air is increasing,' concludes Hogan. 'The Falcon continues to fight back in what promises to be an exciting and challenging year for the airline industry and Gulf Air.'