Gulf Air Celebrates Relaunch of Direct Flights to New York, Strengthening Bahrain–U.S. Ties

Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has marked a major milestone with the relaunch of its direct flights from Bahrain International Airport to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). This move not only reconnects two key global cities but also reinforces the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between Bahrain and the United States.

The reinstated route represents a renewed commitment by both nations to deepen cooperation and unlock new opportunities in trade, culture, and tourism. As a national carrier, Gulf Air plays a critical role in connecting Bahrain to global markets, bolstering economic growth, and enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a regional aviation hub.

To commemorate the occasion, a formal reception was held at JFK Airport, attended by a distinguished delegation including His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Rashid Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Ambassador to the United States; Ambassador Jamal Faris Al-Ruwaie, Permanent Representative of Bahrain to the United Nations; and Sarah Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority. Senior Gulf Air officials and airport representatives were also present, underscoring the diplomatic and strategic significance of the event.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Sheikh Abdullah emphasized the importance of this renewed air bridge, calling it a “landmark moment in the historical partnership between Bahrain and the United States.” Sarah Ahmed Buhiji highlighted the alignment of this route with the goals of Bahrain’s Tourism Strategy 2022–2026, noting it as a major step toward increasing Bahrain's visibility on the global tourism map and enhancing its connectivity with the U.S. market. 

Simultaneously, a celebration was held at Bahrain International Airport to send off the inaugural flight, attended by Khalid Hussein Tuqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group; Elizabeth Leitchfield, U.S. Deputy Ambassador to Bahrain; and Hussein Ahmed Shuaile, Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, along with senior Gulf Air officials.

Gulf Air will now operate three weekly flights to JFK, offering travelers seamless access not only to New York City but also to destinations across the Americas. The route serves as a vital bridge between East and West, reaffirming Gulf Air’s commitment to excellence in service and strategic connectivity.

As Bahrain continues to expand its global reach, the relaunch of this direct route symbolizes a new chapter in bilateral engagement, tourism development, and economic cooperation between Bahrain and the United States.