Gulf Air, the Bahrain-based airline, has launched a series of rescue flights departing from Dammam on March 11, 2026, amid ongoing regional conflicts that have led to the closure of airspace in several Gulf countries. This initiative is part of their effort to reposition aircraft stranded in Bahrain and to facilitate the safe evacuation of passengers from affected regions.
These rescue operations are currently limited to flights bound for London Heathrow, Mumbai International, and Bangkok Suvarnabhumi. The airline has clarified that only passengers with existing bookings on these routes are eligible to participate, and all scheduled commercial flights remain suspended due to the restrictions. The rescue flights mark a temporary measure, as Gulf Air previously operated private rescue services from Dammam but did not advertise them publicly.
According to data from ch-aviation, Gulf Air is utilizing several aircraft, including Airbus A320-200, A320-200N, A321-200, A321-200NX, and Boeing B787-9 models, to support these rescue efforts. Additional aircraft have been repositioned from Bahrain to Al Ula International, including four A320-200s, two A321-200s, and six A321-200NXs, emphasizing the airline’s logistical response to the ongoing conflict.
The geopolitical situation continues to impact regional air operations, with Bahrain and Kuwait still experiencing full airspace closures due to the Iran conflict. Meanwhile, Qatar and the UAE have resumed limited air traffic, while Saudi Arabia and Oman remain open, having never shut their airspace during the hostilities.
