It’s in all the newspapers today, Abu Dhabi to pull out. Discussion will be held next week in Muscat on how. Yet still no response from any in management to reassure future of Gulf Air's UAE staff. Apparently it was advised to management 2 days ago; papers are informed yet staff as usual knows nothing.
Up for discussion will have to be the future of Gulf Traveller, the retirements of the B767 fleet and a reduction of aircraft. Abu Dhabi is the second biggest hub in Gulf Air so there will be a reduction in traffic and it has been an important owner without Abu Dhabi, Gulf Air, would not be here today.
So those people who were forced to Abu Dhabi for Gulf Traveller will be relocated again. Where to next, Muscat, and in 2 years time to be told they are pulling out?
The crew in Abu Dhabi has now an uncertain future. Will Gulf Air sign any No Objection Certificate or Transfer Form? I believe change of ownership is an exemption so Emirates and Etihad if you need crew give them a call I am sure many would like to stay in the UAE.
We knew it would happen one day, so good luck to all and I do hope for the sake of the staff in Gulf Air they have a plan that includes all of us in the company.