Bahrain’s commitment to maintaining a robust and secure airspace was highlighted recently as the nation’s Air Navigation Centre managed a significant volume of air traffic while navigating complex regional geopolitical events. In the first half of the year alone, approximately 260,000 aircraft traversed the Kingdom’s skies, demonstrating Bahrain’s crucial role as a regional air traffic hub. This activity was discussed during a Shura Council session where the Bahrain-Kyrgyz air services agreement was debated and ultimately approved, underscoring the nation’s proactive approach to strengthening international aviation ties.
Bahrain Air Navigation Centre Handles High Traffic Volume
The sheer number of aircraft managed by Bahrain’s Air Navigation Centre – 260,000 in just six months – speaks to the Kingdom’s strategic location and the confidence placed in its air traffic control systems. This figure represents a substantial workload for air traffic controllers, requiring constant vigilance and adherence to the highest safety standards. His Excellency Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, emphasized this point during his address to the Shura Council, detailing the pressures faced by these professionals.
The Minister’s presentation coincided with the council’s review of the new air services agreement with the Kyrgyz Republic, a move designed to foster greater collaboration and expand opportunities within the aviation sector. The agreement, submitted with Royal Decree No. 35 of 2025, aligns with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Strengthening Air Transport Ties with Kyrgyzstan
The Bahrain-Kyrgyz air services agreement is a key component of Bahrain’s broader strategy to enhance its position as a leading aviation center. Nancy Dina Khadouri, rapporteur of the Shura Council’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee, explained that the agreement aims to bolster air transport connections, promote competition among airlines, and broaden travel options for passengers.
Furthermore, the agreement prioritizes flight safety and aviation security, ensuring mutual recognition of certificates and licenses. This is expected to support Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air, and open avenues for new routes, ultimately driving trade, investment, and tourism between the two nations. The agreement’s focus on reciprocal benefits highlights Bahrain’s commitment to mutually advantageous international partnerships.
Navigating Regional Challenges: A Recent Airspace Closure
Shaikh Abdullah’s address wasn’t solely focused on future growth. He recounted a recent incident that vividly illustrated the challenges Bahrain faces in maintaining airspace security amidst regional instability. He described the tense situation following air-raid sirens in Qatar triggered by an Iranian attack.
During this period, Bahrain was actively managing air traffic and safeguarding its own airspace. The decision to temporarily close Bahrain’s airspace was a difficult one, particularly as aircraft were already within the Kingdom’s flight information region and incoming flights couldn’t be accommodated at Bahrain International Airport. The closure lasted two hours and involved 16 aircraft.
Swift and Professional Response
The Minister praised the calm and professional response of Bahraini air traffic control teams during the crisis. He emphasized their rigorous training and adherence to international standards, which enabled them to handle the situation effectively. The response involved coordinating with neighboring airports to receive diverted flights, adhering to strict safety protocols, and promptly notifying partner states and airlines about the closure and subsequent updates. This incident underscores the critical importance of a well-trained and prepared air traffic control workforce.
Bahrain International Airport Expansion and Future Growth
Bahrain International Airport’s recent upgrades have significantly increased its capacity to 14 million passengers annually, a substantial improvement from the 9.3 million passengers recorded last year. Shaikh Abdullah highlighted the government’s commitment to further increasing passenger traffic, recognizing the airport’s vital role in supporting the national economy and tourism sector.
Bahrain is actively pursuing strategies to attract more airlines and routes, including granting fifth and seventh freedom rights. These rights allow airlines greater flexibility in operating flights to and from Bahrain, connecting passengers and cargo to a wider range of destinations. The Kingdom is also exploring the possibility of registering foreign aircraft on its national register to facilitate expanded seventh freedom operations. The recent agreement with Asia’s largest low-cost airline, which is establishing a regional base in Bahrain, is a testament to these efforts, with the airline already having carried 900 million passengers globally.
National Aviation Strategy on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Bahrain is finalizing a comprehensive national aviation strategy, expected to be completed next year. This strategy is being developed with input from all relevant stakeholders, ensuring a collaborative and well-informed approach to the future of the nation’s aviation industry. The strategy will likely build upon the successes of initiatives like the Bahrain-Kyrgyz agreement and the airport expansion, further solidifying Bahrain’s position as a key player in regional and international aviation. The continued development of this sector is crucial for Bahrain’s economic diversification and long-term prosperity, and maintaining secure and efficient airspace will remain a top priority.
