Gulf Air has appointed former airBaltic CEO Martin Gauss as its new chief executive effective Nov. 4, marking a significant leadership shift for Bahrain’s national carrier.
The announcement, made on Sept. 17 by Gulf Air Group Chairman Khalid Taqi, also confirmed the departure of Jeffrey Goh from his position as Group CEO.
Goh, who took up the role in January 2023, guided the airline through what he described as “a pivotal phase” of its transformation.
“Together, we faced exceptional challenges and advanced the Group’s transformation toward the future,” Goh said in a farewell statement. “Gulf Air Group has a proud legacy that positions it for continued growth and success.”
Taqi said he has “confidence” in Gauss’ ability to advance the national carrier, enhance competitiveness, strengthen corporate culture, expand the global network, and improve operational performance.
“I am honored to join Gulf Air as CEO,” Gauss said. “The airline has a rich legacy as Bahrain’s national carrier, and I look forward to working with the team to build on this strong foundation.”
Before assuming his new role at Gulf Air, Gauss served as CEO of airBaltic, the national carrier of Latvia, since 2011, where he led strategic restructuring, and fleet modernization initiatives. Gauss was relieved of his position at airBaltic on April 7, following publication of the Latvian flag carrier’s 2024 financial results, in which the airline posted a €118 million ($129 million) net loss, versus a €33.7 million net profit the previous year. At airBaltic, COO Pauls Cālītis has been interim CEO since Gauss stepped down. In August, AirBaltic’s supervisory board appointed Erno Hildén, formerly CFO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), as its new CEO, effective Dec. 1.
Once a dominant player in Middle Eastern aviation during the 1970s and 1980s, Gulf Air has struggled for over a decade to find a profitable and sustainable niche in an increasingly competitive region. CEOs have come and gone regularly.
However, Gauss said, “Together, we will continue Gulf Air’s transformation journey and enhance its competitiveness regionally and globally.”
The leadership change comes as Gulf Air pushes ahead with its expansion plans. In July, the airline confirmed an order for 12 Boeing 787s, with options for six more, strengthening its long-haul network. The carrier also operates narrowbody Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft.
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