Gulf Air is increasing flights between Bahrain and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan by 30% from 14 to 21 flights per week to accommodate increasing passenger demand. The approval to operate a greater number of flights follows the successful conclusion of negotiations last month between the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Ministry of Transportation and Civil Aviation Authority and Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority, to increase air traffic rights between the two countries.

Gulf Air’s new schedule to Pakistan, effective from the 16th December 2013, will see weekly flights increased to all four destinations that the airline currently operates to in the country as follows; Karachi from seven to ten, Islamabad from two to three, Lahore from three to four and Peshawar from two to four.

The additional frequencies, part of the airline’s winter schedule, will provide passengers with excellent two-way connectivity to and from Pakistan through Gulf Air’s efficient Bahrain hub with onward connections to over 11 destinations across the airline’s network in the GCC, Middle East and Europe including, Frankfurt, London, Paris, Amman, Dubai and three destinations in Saudi Arabia: Dammam, Medina and Jeddah.

Gulf Air’s Acting Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Ahmed Janahi commented saying, “Pakistan is a key longstanding market for Gulf Air and has been one of our most successful destinations in recent times. Demand continues to grow and the additional traffic rights secured allow us to cater to this emergent market. Gulf Air operates one of the largest networks in the region and as such presents a unique advantage for our Pakistani customers to reach the Middle East and North African markets with our seamless connection via Bahrain.”

He continued, “Increasing frequencies to Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar in Pakistan demonstrate the forward-looking emphasis of Gulf Air as it continues to implement its restructuring strategy.  The airline remains committed to proactively identifying opportunities to strengthen its network through increasing frequencies and enhancing existing codeshare relationships.”

Gulf Air has had a strong presence in Pakistan since its first flight in 1972.