Fuel efficient planes for Middle East carrier

Bahrain national carrier Gulf Air has put the first of 15 new 'fuel efficient' Airbus A320 aircraft into service - the first step in the airline's five-year refleeting plan.

The aircraft was officially welcomed with water salute at Bahrain International Airport by Gulf Air chairman Talal Al Zain and chief executive officer Samer Majali.

"This is a proud moment for Gulf Air as we take another step forward in our mission to deliver a national airline that we can all be proud of and a dynamic and focused business that supports the national economy. By investing in our fleet now, we are securing the future of Gulf Air," said Al Zain in comments published by Trade Arabia.

The new A320 aircraft can carry 136 passengers and includes 16 business class and 120 economy class seats.

Majali added: “These are exciting times for Gulf Air. The start of our fleet renewal is another milestone for us and is extremely timely as we continue to shape our new strategic direction."

He said that now until until April 2010, Gulf Air would receive one A320 aircraft per month and an additional two A320s in December 2010.

"This new A320 aircraft together with the nine others that will follow between now and the end of 2010 will be used to replace our older narrow body aircraft which are less fuel efficient and becoming more expensive to maintain," he added.