Inspired by its legendary ‘Five-star Tri-Star’ service of the late 1970’s and 80’s, Gulf Air is set to re-create the golden-age of travel following the recent launch of completely new seating, furnishing and service in its First and Business Class cabins.
The fleet of Airbus A330s serving the Gulf and Europe, has resulted in customers enjoying a host of benefits.
James Hogan, president and chief executive of Gulf Air, said, “Gulf Air continues to go from strength to strength. As we move into the next stage of our growth strategy, we are acutely aware that what really sets apart airlines today is service and comfort. What we are now offering is new, unique and extraordinary.
In a ‘private cabin space’, a full recline capability allows each seat to be transformed into a fully functional bed, complete with sheets and duvets, over-sized pillows, silk cushions, pyjamas, eye shades, and socks. The ‘total sleep experience’ begins in a unique on-board changing room, enhanced by natural light from its own window. The spacious spa atmosphere is tastefully enhanced with a designer worktop; luxurious timber flooring and exclusive, trendy ‘spa-to-go’ Temple Spa products, for the ultimate pampering before bedtime.
When the seats are returned to normal, they are still extraordinary. Finished with leather armrests, they have large head wings, offer lumbar support and individual power outlets, for laptop use. On-board entertainment is delivered via an impressive 15-inch flat screen monitor and high-tech, noise-cancelling headsets.
Gulf Air’s already legendary ‘restaurant in the sky’ provides the finest dining in the skies with five star gourmet menus prepared on demand by the airline’s sky chefs. The new cabin concept has been designed to allow a private companion dining option with space for up to four diners, who have access to 18 different menus and a world-class selection of vintage wines. Traditional dining options are complemented by a stand up onboard buffet which offers a full range of drinks and snacks.
In Business Class the improvements are equally impressive. Just 24 skybeds will be fitted in each aircraft, allowing an incredible 63 inches of leg room, and no middle seat - both industry firsts. The latter employs a lounge-bed profile, in as much as it not completely flat; this ergonomic design has been ‘scientifically proven’ to provide the healthiest and most comfortable sleeping position for air travellers.
Space is the key word in the new Gulf Air Business Class; with a seat that moves within a pod, so when it reclines, there is no impact on the passenger behind. Extra space is provided for a laptop, and more attention than ever before has been given to space for personal storage – for shoes, glasses or bottles of water. Each seat, finished in stylish timber, has its own privacy screen, and is adjustable in three ways while an advanced swivel type tray table and adjustable armrests give up to two extra inches of space.
Gulf Air’s renewed commitment to luxury doesn’t end in the air. Arabian hospitality is ensured from start to finish, from limousine transfers and meet and greet services, to new premium check-in counters, with fast-track departures and arrivals, complemented by state-of-the–art e-kiosks and e-check-in.