Gulf Air Philippines experiences 67.5 per cent increase in passenger traffic

Gulf Air Philippines has reported a 67.5 per cent rise in passenger traffic in the first seven months of 2004 compared with the same period the previous year.

Figures show that a total of 67,285 people flew with Gulf Air from the Philippines between January 1 and July 30, 2004. This compares to a total of 40,174 during the same period in 2003.

The increase is attributed to more flights originating from Manila travelling to the Middle East and Europe and the introduction of new in-flight services such as Gulf Air's Sky Chefs in first class.

With the increase in demand, Gulf Air added an extra four flights per week from the Philippines during 2003. Gulf Air flies direct from Manila to Bahrain, Abu Dhabi and Muscat with connections to over 50 cities in Asia, Australia, Europe, the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

The Sky Chef service provides first class passengers with an onboard chef, giving them a fine dining experience during their flight. The Sky Chefs have trained at some of the world's best restaurants.

Gulf Air's Country Manager in the Philippines Mr. Bobby Hukom said: "The figures show that demand has recovered since the downturn experienced after the SARS outbreak in 2003. Passengers have also responded well to the enhancements we've made to our in-flight services.

"These results send a positive message that Gulf Air is on track to achieving profitability by 2005. This is despite increased competition in the region and rising fuel costs.

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