Bahrain’s national carrier Gulf Air has started its service to Isfahan in Iran, the airline’s 46th destination and the first in 2011.

The inaugural flight took off from Bahrain international Airport yesterday evening.

“This is our fourth city in the Islamic Republic of Iran after Tehran, Shiraz and Mashhad, where we have been flying to for many years,” stated Gulf Air chief executive officer Samer Majali.

“We chose Isfahan for many reasons; it is one of the major niche markets that is yet to be adequately served. From fine carpets to exquisite handicrafts, from quintessential culture to traditional Islamic architecture, to historic holy sites - it is a great tourist destination waiting to be explored but is increasingly being spotted by discerning travelers.”

“Gulf Air is the first international airline to connect Isfahan to the region. We believe that the opening of Isfahan will create city-pairs by providing direct services to Bahrain and beyond.”

“On the other hand, Isfahan is also home to factories and establishments that produce fine carpets, textiles, steel, a major oil refinery and an advanced aircraft manufacturing facility. Now with a direct flight between Isfahan and Bahrain, we are opening up a whole new market.”

Gulf Air will be operating Embraer E70 aircraft with  thrice-weekly flights.-TradeArabia News Service