Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, performed a celebratory air show amidst rainy weather above the Sepang International Circuit, as part of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix Formula One 2026 events in Malaysia. This marks the first time in the carrier's history that one of its aircraft has flown over a Formula One race outside the Kingdom of Bahrain.
The air show was one of the highlights of the race weekend, which is being held for the first time outside the Kingdom of Bahrain.
For more than two decades, the flight of Gulf Air planes over the Bahrain International Circuit has been associated with the start of the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, and this scene has now extended for the first time to the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, in the presence of motorsport fans, international media and visitors from around the world.
The air show was performed using a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, showcasing the efficiency and expertise of Gulf Air's flight operations and engineering teams, and their commitment to the highest standards of safety, reliability, and operational performance. The display also reflected the shared precision, discipline, and excellence of both the aviation and Formula One sectors.
The show was watched by more than 100,000 spectators at the arena, in addition to being broadcast to millions of viewers around the world, thus enhancing the presence of Gulf Air and the Kingdom of Bahrain within one of the most prominent global sporting events.
On this occasion, Mr Martin Gauss, CEO of Gulf Air, said: “For many years, the Gulf Air air show has been associated with the launch of the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, and its implementation for the first time in another country, during a race bearing the name of our national carrier and the Kingdom of Bahrain, represents a proud moment for all Gulf Air employees. This show goes beyond being an air show, to reflect our role as a national carrier connecting the Kingdom of Bahrain to the world, and to highlight Bahraini excellence before a wide international audience.”
As part of Gulf Air’s commitment to sustainability, the implementation of the offer was supported by the purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), as part of the carrier’s efforts to contribute to reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector, reflecting its keenness to balance operational excellence with its long-term sustainability goals.
The air show capped off a successful race weekend, during which Gulf Air welcomed more than 35,000 visitors to the Gulf Air Fan Zone, along with hospitality and promotional activities that boosted the carrier’s presence among international audiences during the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 in Malaysia, just days after launching its direct flights between the Kingdom of Bahrain and Kuala Lumpur.
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