MANAMA: Gulf Air – the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain – has added scuba diving equipment to its growing list of special free baggage allowance with up to 15 kilograms of scuba diving equipment permitted complimentary over and above the standard allowance for all passengers. Coinciding with Bahrain’s Sports Day on 11 February, the new policy has been introduced in response to increasing demand from scuba divers who fly to various beach destinations within the global Gulf Air network. The airline operates direct flights to a number of seaside destinations such as the Maldives, Sharm El Sheikh, Alexandria, Muscat, Casablanca, Athens, Larnaca – all from its Bahrain hub which is also known for its scuba diving facilities including the recently launched ‘Dive Bahrain’ which is the largest underwater theme park.
The new policy will enable divers to carry up to 15 kilograms of scuba diving equipment on top of their tickets’ baggage allowance.
Last year, Gulf Air increased the baggage allowance for athletes allowing them to travel with their golf bags or bicycles free of charge to promote a healthy lifestyle amongst its passengers. Moreover, the airline enhanced baggage allowance for all college and university students with additional free of charge 23-kilogram bag applicable to all undergraduate and postgraduate students holding a valid college or university student ID card and flying between any points within the airline’s global network.
Back in 2018, Gulf Air launched a new and simplified baggage policy providing more choice and clarity to its passengers. The old weight concept was replaced by a harmonized piece concept worldwide, which provided greater benefits to passengers and Falconflyer loyalty program members. Currently, passengers are entitled to check-in up to two bags free of charge, depending on their fare type, route and up to three bags depending on their Gulf Air Falconflyer status. On many routes, the new concept means increased baggage allowances for customers and an instant reduction in excess baggage rates. Customers can benefit from further reductions if they purchase directly with Gulf Air up to 24 hours before travel.
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