Starting October 1, 2025, the airline will operate three weekly flights to JFK from Bahrain International Airport (BAH) using its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. Gulf Air’s Dreamliners are outfitted with an economy cabin and the carrier’s plush Falcon Gold business class, which offers lie-flat seats, turndown service with bedding and pajamas, and a 22-inch entertainment screen with noise-canceling headphones.
Gulf Air will initially operate its flights from the current Terminal One at JFK. The airline intends to transition its operations to JFK’s New Terminal One in June 2026, offering passengers a seamless and modern travel experience aligned with Gulf Air’s premium service standards.
Gulf Air Group Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Goh stated, “We are excited to announce the launch of our direct flights to New York’s JFK and our return to the North American market. This service aligns with Gulf Air’s strategy of calibrated expansion and serving strategic markets, providing passengers with greater choice and convenience for travel, through Bahrain International Airport, between Bahrain and North America, and beyond, supporting the connectivity strategy of the Kingdom.”
Nicknamed the “Island of Pearls,” Bahrain is known for its many islands, water sports, beautiful desert landscapes, and events like the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix. Beyond Bahrain, Gulf Air flies to popular destinations in the region, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Cairo, and Amman. It also flies to Europe and Asia, including destinations like Athens, Frankfurt, and Bangkok. In March, the carrier launched a new route to London Gatwick Airport.
The return follows Bahrain’s upgrade to Category 1 safety status by the US FAA, a regulatory milestone allowing Bahraini airlines to operate direct services to the US. Gulf Air last served JFK in the 1990s with various one-stop routes but has since focused on regional connectivity.
Passengers can book their flights to/from New York and stay updated on flight timings by downloading the Gulf Air mobile application, visiting Gulf Air’s website gulfair.com, or through travel agents.
