Gulf Air has signed a MoU with Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA) offering 25 per cent discount on tickets for members of the media. The airline also announced plans to arrange training for journalists in the field of aviation journalism.

As per the MoU, the Bahrain national carrier will offer 25 per cent discount on base ticket fare (excluding taxes and surcharges) for members of the BJA to travel on any of the Gulf Air direct network destinations on both economy and Falcon Gold (Business) class.

The agreement was signed by Gulf Air CEO Samer Majali and BJA chairman Isa Al Shaigi on the sidelines of BJA Ramadan Ghabgha held on Tuesday.

“As the national carrier we appreciate the role played by media and journalists in projecting the growth and development of Bahrain. Press and media are the voice of Bahrain in global forums and therefore, it is important that we support this key sector of the society,' remarked Majali.

According to Majali, the discounts on tickets will be given to journalists and members of BJS across the Gulf Air network and for all classes.

He said the decision to support  the BJA journalists to facilitate their mission comes from within the framework that links the airline, the BJA and its constituent local newspapers.

'Gulf Air always seeks and works in close co-operation with the press by providing information and as we both work towards the same goal,' he added.

Majali also announced the airline's decision to arrange for professional training in the field of aviation journalism for the members of BJA.

'Aviation journalism is a specialized area and the training would help the journalists to learn the basics of the aviation industry and its key role in supporting the economic and social aspects and help them write their stories with accuracy and professionalism.

Welcoming the MoU, Isa Al Shaigi said, “ This agreement I am sure will make a good impact on all journalists and media members which will no doubt reinforce the relationship between the national airline and the local press. I am sure our members will appreciate this gesture by the national carrier.”

“Gulf Air is the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain and it is our duty to support the airline in its progress, especially in current aviation industry’s competitive climate,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service