Gulf Air to introduce new state-of-the-art First and Business Class seats on March 28

Central to the refit is the installation of state-of-the-art seats in the First and Business Class cabins which Gulf Air is confident will re-confirm its position as the region's ultimate luxury airline.

The $10 million investment is part of an overall strategy to bring Gulf Air, which is currently in the final year of its three-year restructuring programme, in line with world-class customer service practices

Gulf Air is the launch customer for EADS Sogerma Class 180 seat in First Class, and the EADS Sogerma Evolys seat for Business Class.

The latter employs a lounge-bed profile, in as much as it not completely flat; this ergonomic design has been 'scientifically proven' to provide the healthiest and most comfortable sleeping position for air travellers.

"The Business-Class seat design is different to the 'Z' shape design favoured by some carriers, which we don't believe is the optimal design for sleeper seats. A sleep survey we conducted proves that our lounge profile is a far better position for a good night's sleep," said Mr Hogan.

The new skybeds are being installed as part of a complete cabin refurbishment, which includes, the enhancement of in-flight entertainment systems and refreshed menus, which combined will create the most comfortable seating and sleeping environment in the skies today, providing unparalleled levels of luxury, privacy and spaciousness.

Following the completion of the first aircraft, the remaining five Airbus A330's in the Gulf Air fleet will be refitted with completion scheduled for July.