Gulf Air will move all its operations to Bahrain's new airport terminal on January 28th. The international hub will see new lounges and dedicated check-in areas for Gulf Air passengers. The new terminal is four times larger than the previous one, accommodating up to 14 million yearly passengers.

Making the switch

According to a report from Bahrain News Agency, Gulf Air will shift its operations to the new terminal the same day it opens, January 28th. As flag carrier, the airline has already been a part of the design process, setting up dedicated facilities for its passengers. In a statement, Gulf Air CEO said,

“We started our operations back in 1950 in a small facility in Muharraq [Island] and soon we will see a world-class airport being officially opened to welcome the world to our beloved Kingdom. The new airport is our new home and we are proud to have a bigger, more modern home to be Gulf Air’s hub."

Bahrain is notably home to the oldest international airport in the Gulf region, starting operations in 1927. In the early 2010s, Bahrain planned to expand the existing airport at the cost of over $1.1bn. The original date to open the terminal was March 2020, however, the pandemic forced a push into 2021.

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Made for Gulf Air

While we don't know the exact details about what Gulf Air has planned for its new base, the airline has revealed some changes. Passengers can expect a dedicated check-in area for both economy and business class, possibly similar to those in Istanbul and Doha. Priority check-in and security areas for elite status members and those in premium cabins can be expected too.

Gulf Air has also emphasized the overhaul of its 'Falcon Gold' lounge in the new terminal. The new lounge is double in size and can seat 400 passengers at a time. Considering Gulf Air's largest aircraft, the 787, only has 26 business class seats, this lounge should have ample space most of the time.

A new children's area, shower room, quiet area, prayer rooms, and a live food station will be added to the lounge. The new changes could make Gulf Air's premium product even more attractive, considering it already has one of the most unique seats in the sky.

Needed upgrade

Simple Flying has had the chance to review the Falcon Flyer and Dilmun Lounge at Bahrain's old terminal. While the airport did not have any operational issues, growing passenger numbers made the terminal feel small, with a dated design and architecture. The lack of high ceilings and glass windows made the airport feel less modern than its competitors.

However, all of this will change in two weeks, with the inauguration of the new terminal on January 28th. With its capacity doubling to over 14 million passengers, it's sure to be much more modern and spacious than its predecessor.

What do you think about Gulf Air's move? Have you flown with them before? Let us know in the comments!