Martin Gauss to lead Gulf Air Gulf Air's new recruit: Martin Gauss, former CEO of Air Baltic, has been appointed as the CEO of the company.
The national airline of Bahrain, Gulf Air, which halted all its flights to Israel since October 2023, has announced the appointment of Martin Gauss as its CEO. He will assume the position on November 4, 2025.
This move is seen as a strategic acquisition for the kingdom's national carrier, which seeks to strengthen its regional standing and continue growth amidst competition from Gulf aviation giants.
Gauss is considered one of the influential figures in European aviation.
For 13 years, he led Air Baltic, Latvia's national carrier, and turned it into a remarkable success story: a uniform and modern fleet of Airbus A220 aircraft, a profitable and innovative business model, and international recognition as an efficient and reliable company.
Gauss left his position shortly after Lufthansa acquired shares in Air Baltic, marking the beginning of a new era for the Baltic company. Previously, he served as CEO of Hungary's MALÉV.
In previous interviews with PassportNews, Gauss emphasized his vision: responsible management, constant renewal, and striving for quality passenger service, concepts expected to accompany him in his new role at Gulf Air.
Founded in 1950, Gulf Air is considered the first among Gulf airlines. It currently serves destinations in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, playing a central role in Bahrain's air connectivity. However, it faces stiff competition from Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways.
Gauss's appointment is intended to inject extensive international experience into the company, proven growth capability amid crises, and the standing of one of the most respected CEOs in world aviation.
It should be noted that Gulf Air stopped its flights to Israel since the outbreak of the "Iron Swords" conflict in October 2023 and has not yet resumed its operations from Manama airport to Tel Aviv.
The appointment comes at a time when the Middle Eastern aviation sector is experiencing ongoing shifts, and Gauss's connection might signify a new future for the company's regional links.
Gauss stated upon his appointment: "I am proud and excited to join Gulf Air as CEO. It is an honor to lead an airline with a history of over 75 years – the first in the Gulf. I intend to build a strong and secure future for Bahrain's national carrier along with the teams and partners."
Gulf Air, after nearly 30 years of not operating flights to North America, will start direct flights to New York (JFK).
The new route, commencing on October 1, 2025, will offer three weekly flights between Bahrain airport and JFK, operated using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
Initially, Gulf Air will operate its flights from Terminal 1 at JFK Airport, with a planned transition to the new and advanced New Terminal One in June 2026.