Other Middle East and Africa Frequent Flyer Programs - Gulf Air F or Etihad C?

Hey guys.

Looking at price for next summer from DEL-CAI and I am finding that the first class fares on Gulf Air are about $200.00 more then Business class on Etihad. Not being familiar with either airline, which would you choose?


Side question: How is FC on gulf?


Thanks

I'm not familiar with the aircraft for this route but would go F of GF (unless there is some info to the contrary re. the GF service) for the miles, which can be credited to AA or used for a future VS flight.

GF's BAH F lounge was great when I visited last.

Check the mileage and bonuses (and if there is still an onboard signup bonus for joining the FFP rather than before...).

I am not aware that you would get limo service on either, from these airports, but that's a consideration which might tip one in favour.

The mileage bonus in F might get you into GF Silver status from the one flight, depending on mileage. This would allow you lounge access on Y tickets in future (if you had to).

Check the forum's Trip Report index as we should have something for each airline ex-DEL.

:)

(I'd fly GF F just for the Sky Chef ;))

Not sure about DEL-BAH aircraft but its usually an A340. If it's the daytime BAH-CAI flight (recommended btw) it's always A340. Good solid aircraft (I hate A320 longhaul). Lounge in BAH is an added bonus, plus transferring in BAH is an easy painless experience.

GF also have an onboard chef in F therefore the food is usually top-notch.

Hey guys.

Looking at price for next summer from DEL-CAI Side question: How is FC on gulf?


Thanks

I did this same flight in 2007 when the DEL-BAH flight was being operated (temporarily) by the A330. That had full flat beds (the 767s in the fleet, which were scheduled for this flight at the time, were being withdrawn due to corrosion!).

The flight exDEL was early morning and there was a comprehensive breakfast menu with a choice of 4 main courses, and delicious fresh fruits etc.

We stopped in Muscat for an hour, and there was a brunch service from Muscat to Bahrain. I'm not sure if the stop in muscat has now been taken out.

The A340 to Cairo was standard F seating (62" pitch, 60 degree recline, and full horizontal foot rest, so pretty comfortable). The food on the CAI flight was a choice of three mains, the quality was so-so. But the service was great.

Regards

lme etc etc

We stopped in Muscat for an hour, and there was a brunch service from Muscat to Bahrain. I'm not sure if the stop in muscat has now been taken out.



All Gulf Air flights begin and endin Bahrain. Muscat is no more than a destination now.

I would choose GF First class over Etihad C Class. I flew the other day on Etihad C Class on 777 and frankly speaking: "I DID NOT LIKE THE SEAT"

I would choose GF First class over Etihad C Class. I flew the other day on Etihad C Class on 777 and frankly speaking: "I DID NOT LIKE THE SEAT"

Hopefully we can learn any FTer whose screen name / 'handle' (In CAPS, too!) includes the words Etihad, seat and designer. ;)

Gulf Air First Class all the way! Sky chef is world renowned!

Indeed, both flights are operated by A340s. Currently available in 2 configurations...

A - older seats which recline flat (http://www.gulfair.com/Air/A340-300(343).htm)
B - newer flatbed seat (http://www.gulfair.com/Air/A340-300skybed.htm)

Etihad Pearl flatbeds are becoming more common as older types are phrased out, but there's still a risk of getting on of the old recliners.

Cheers,

and the F lounge in BAH is very nice too...much nice than the EY lounge last time i passed through AUH.

Gulf Air First Class all the way! Sky chef is world renowned!

Indeed, both flights are operated by A340s. Currently available in 2 configurations...

A - older seats which recline flat (http://www.gulfair.com/Air/A340-300(343).htm)
B - newer flatbed seat (http://www.gulfair.com/Air/A340-300skybed.htm)

Etihad Pearl flatbeds are becoming more common as older types are phrased out, but there's still a risk of getting on of the old recliners.

Cheers,

If you value a ful flat bd, go with EY. They have all new cabins, no recliners left.

I don't like a recliner seat at all, so I"d take EY and they are rolling out Inspired Service, which is really a great IFS concept.