Bahrain's Gulf Air renews tech deal with Sabre

Bahrani airline Gulf Air said Tuesday it will renew and upgrade its flight planning technology through an agreement with Sabre Corporation.

The airline has been using Sabre's AirCentre Flight Plan Manager for the past eight years in a limited capacity, but will now look to the technology for more information the company hopes will streamline overall operations.

"AirCentre Flight Plan Manager offers an essential technology solution in support of Gulf Air's operations," Gulf Air CEO Nasser Al Salmi said. "With this solution, we can accurately calculate fuel usage, in turn supporting our drive to better manage and reduce fuel costs. This upgrade can only further benefit Gulf Air as we continually work toward operating in the most efficient and cost-effective manner and maintaining the highest level of service for our passengers."

The software also provides data on weather, air space restrictions, aircraft performance and schedule information.

Sabre officials described the new deal as a good match between the technology's capacity and the needs of a growing airline business.

"It is increasingly evident to us that Gulf Air is enjoying greater success and has a clear path for continued growth over the coming years," Sabre Vice President of Airline Solutions Dino Gelmetti said. "Sabre is fully committed to helping Gulf Air deliver that strategy by providing technology that can help streamline its operations. Flight Plan Manager is based on flexible and adaptable technology infrastructure designed to enable airlines to maintain a modern operational environment, evolving with an airline's needs as the dynamic marketplace changes."

Gulf Air will be one of 255 airlines using Sabre technology worldwide.