Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national carrier, has resumed nonstop flights between Bahrain and New York (JFK), with the first inaugural flight taking off on October 1, 2025.Gulf Air Operating three weekly round trips on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, the airline will use JFK’s existing Terminal 1 initially and transition to the new “New Terminal One” when it opens in 2026. This marks Gulf Air’s return to the U.S. market after nearly three decades and, at launch, the only nonstop link between Bahrain and the United States.
Bahrain to New York flight schedule and aircraft details
Gulf Air’s published schedule for the opening period lists the flights as:
| Flight No. | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Frequency | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GF091 | BAH → JFK | ~04:00 (BAH time) | ~10:55 (JFK time) | 3x weekly | Boeing 787-9 |
| GF090 | JFK → BAH | ~15:00 (JFK time) | ~10:35 (next day, BAH time) | 3x weekly | Boeing 787-9 |
The route is flown with the airline’s Boeing 787-9 aircraft on a three-times-weekly rotation.Cabin layout used on the 787-9 for this route is reported as a Falcon Gold (business) cabin plus a standard economy cabin industry coverage and launch photography note a boutique, premium-lean layout consistent with Gulf Air’s positioning. The inaugural service was operated with Gulf Air’s 787-9 (reported in some coverage in a retro livery for the launch flight).
Gulf Air’s strategic expansion into the U.S. market
The relaunch reflects Bahrain’s strategy to deepen aviation, tourism, and business links with the United States. Officials highlighted the importance of attracting visitors, boosting Formula 1 tourism, and strengthening commercial exchanges. Gulf Air’s move is also a signal that the airline, while smaller than regional giants like Emirates or Qatar Airways, is committed to carving out a premium long-haul niche. The return to New York revives a route last flown in the 1990s, underscoring its symbolic and strategic value.
Gulf Air and JFK new terminal one partnership
A long-term partnership has been signed with JFK’s New Terminal One, ensuring Gulf Air passengers will transition from current Terminal 1 to the new state-of-the-art facility once it opens in 2026. This underlines Gulf Air’s commitment to the U.S. market and its intention to maintain long-term U.S. operations rather than a short-term promotional route.
Why this matters
- Diplomacy and tourism: The relaunch is framed by Gulf Air and Bahraini authorities as part of a push to deepen cultural and economic ties with the U.S., and to attract tourism from Formula 1 visitors to business travel to Bahrain. Gulf Air publicly linked the announcement to high-level visits and national milestones.
- Market positioning: Gulf Air is smaller than Gulf mega-carriers but aims to carve a premium, service-focused niche on long-haul routes. Restoring a direct New York link signals a deliberate step into a market Gulf Air left in the 1990s.
- Airport partnership: The carrier’s long-term strategic partnership with JFK’s “New Terminal One” shows planning beyond a short promotional route, Gulf Air will move into the new terminal when its first phase opens, underlining a commitment to sustained operations.
With the resumption of nonstop Bahrain–New York flights, Gulf Air not only restores a historic connection but also reinforces Bahrain’s position as a growing international aviation hub. The strategic partnership with JFK’s New Terminal One, combined with the modern 787-9 Dreamliner fleet and premium service offerings, signals Gulf Air’s long-term commitment to the U.S. market. For travelers, businesses, and tourists alike, this route provides faster, more convenient access between the Gulf and North America, marking a significant milestone in Gulf Air’s ongoing global expansion.
