27 August 2009

Gulf Air looks at partnership options

MANAMA - Gulf Air's new CEO said the Bahraini state carrier is re-evaluating its entire business and may need to adjust orders for nearly 60 Boeing and Airbus aircraft.

Chief executive Samer Majali said the struggling carrier might look to partner with other airlines to stay competitive.

A comprehensive review now under way aims to look at "every aspect of the business," he said.
"We cannot rely on government subsidy indefinitely so we also need to build a self-sufficient and commercially successful airline."

Majali, previously with Royal Jordanian, is the fourth new Gulf Air CEO in as many years.

"We do not yet know what size or shape Gulf Air will take following this review," he said in a statement to Associated Press.

"It may be necessary for us to look at our fleet orders with our suppliers and to adjust them according to the airline's newly defined requirements."

Gulf Air last year signed to buy as many as 24 Boeing 787 aircraft.

The airline also has agreed to purchase 35 Airbus A320s and A330-300s. These orders may now to adjusted for later deliveries.
 

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