Gulf Air takes option for eight further 787s

FLY HIGH: In Jan, Boeing announced 10,000 job cuts and said it was scaling back production of the 777. (Getty Images)

Gulf Air has increased its order for Boeing 787s to 24 after exercising options for a further eight.

The Bahraini carrier had 16 787s on order prior to this latest deal, which was revealed on Boeing’s website.

Bringing in the new aircraft is part of Gulf Air’s strategy to revamp its fleet. Last summer, the carrier grounded its last 767 after ordering new planes, including the 787s.

The airline is also extending existing routes and launching new ones in 2009. Its Frankfurt service is increasing from nine to 11 weekly flights, while services to Kuala Lumpur and Tehran will take off daily.

Elsewhere, Gulf Air’s Manila service will be extended to 12 weekly flights, with Bangkok and Kathmandu going double daily in the summer. 

This order is a boost for aircraft manufacturer Boeing, which has recently received 32 cancellations amid the economic downturn.

In January, Boeing announced 10,000 job cuts and said it was scaling back production of the 777.

First deliveries of the 787 are expected in early 2010 – nearly two years later than planned.

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