Gulf Air's partnership with Biman will enhance travel connectivity
Gulf Air has recently been awarded ‘World's Most Improved Airline’ and signed a strategic deal with Biman that will boost connectivity. The Business Standard spoke with Maruful Islam Jhalak, managing director of Gulf Air’s GSA for Bangladesh, on their recent success and future plans

Gulf Air has a rich history, being the first commercial airline established in the Middle East. How has the airline managed to maintain its legacy while also staying ahead in terms of service levels and meeting the demands of the modern aviation industry?
Gulf Air has managed to maintain its legacy by continuously improving its services and adapting to the changing demands of the aviation industry. The airline has invested in modernising its fleet, enhancing its in-flight entertainment and dining options, and improving its customer service.
Gulf Air has also expanded its route network to include more destinations and has formed strategic partnerships with other airlines to offer more travel options to its customers. The airline has also focused on improving its operational efficiency and has implemented measures to reduce its environmental impact.
In the context of the current global challenges faced by the aviation industry, how is Gulf Air addressing issues such as fluctuating fuel prices, changing travel patterns, and the impact of the pandemic on air travel?
Gulf Air is addressing the challenges faced by the aviation industry by implementing cost-saving measures, such as fuel-efficient aircraft and optimised flight routes. The airline is also closely monitoring changing travel patterns and adjusting its services accordingly.
In response to the pandemic, Gulf Air implemented strict health and safety protocols to ensure the safety of its passengers and crew.
The airline is also exploring new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, to improve its operations and enhance the customer experience.
What motivated Gulf Air to pursue a strategic codeshare agreement with Biman Bangladesh Airlines at this particular time?
Gulf Air pursued a strategic codeshare agreement with Biman Bangladesh Airlines to expand its route network and offer more travel options to its customers.
The partnership with Biman Bangladesh Airlines will enhance travel connectivity and convenience for passengers travelling between Bangladesh and the Arabian Gulf region by offering more flight options and seamless connections.
Gulf Air is always exploring opportunities for collaborations and expansions with other airlines in the region to enhance its route network and offer more travel options to its customers.
How does Gulf Air plan to expand its market presence in Bangladesh, and what role do the agents play in achieving this goal?
Gulf Air is currently enjoying a 6% market share in Bangladesh. Gulf Air plans to expand its market presence in Bangladesh by increasing its flight frequency and offering more travel options to its customers. The agents play a crucial role in achieving this goal by promoting Gulf Air's services and providing personalised services to its customers.
With the growing number of migrant workers and leisure travellers from Bangladesh, how does Gulf Air plan to tailor its services to meet the diverse needs of these two distinct passenger segments?
Gulf Air plans to tailor its services to meet the diverse needs of migrant workers and leisure travellers from Bangladesh by offering personalised services and enhancing its in-flight experience.
The airline will also work closely with its agents to understand the needs of its customers and provide tailored services accordingly.
It's interesting to note the plans for the increase in the frequency of flights to Dhaka. Could you elaborate on Gulf Air's vision for its future expansion in Bangladesh, particularly with the upcoming Third Terminal at HSIA?
Gulf Air's vision for future expansion in Bangladesh includes increasing its flight frequency and expanding its route network to include more destinations. The upcoming Third Terminal at HSIA will provide more opportunities for Gulf Air to expand its services and offer more travel options to its customers.
Could you provide an overview of the key challenges Gulf Air has faced in operating in Bangladesh and how the airline has effectively managed to overcome these challenges to achieve success in the market?
Gulf Air has faced challenges in operating in Bangladesh, such as regulatory issues, fund repatriation and competition from other airlines.
The airline has effectively managed to overcome these challenges by investing in modern technology, maintaining PR, improving its services and forming strategic partnerships with other airlines.
With the growing interest in the Chattogram market, how does Gulf Air plan to approach this potential expansion, and what specific factors are being considered in evaluating the feasibility of operating in this region?
Due to the lack of infrastructure, process and limited GHA resources in place only 5% of the market demand against overall industry sales has been directly involved from CGP to various destinations. Furthermore, out of the total Air Freight exports from Bangladesh, 20% of the volume originates from CGP.
Gulf Air is evaluating the feasibility of operating in the Chattogram market by considering factors such as market demand, competition and regulatory requirements. The airline will work closely with its agents and other stakeholders to understand the needs of its customers and provide tailored services accordingly.