United Airlines

United Airlines

United Airlines inaugurated its direct flight between Washington, DC and Manama on April 18.  United is the first U.S. carrier with a direct route between the U.S. and Bahrain, and the flights will help establish new commercial and tourism opportunities for both countries.

Senior Vice President of United Airlines Mark Schwab, Ambassador Ereli, and Dr. Osama Al Ali, CEO of Bahrain Airport Company welcomed the United flight to Bahrain and offered remarks at the inaugural ceremony held in Bahrain International Airport.

Ambassador Ereli said, "The launch of United Airlines' direct air service between Bahrain and the United States is an important development in relations between our two nations.  Bahrain now has a direct link to the largest economy in the world, which will strengthen its position as a key investment hub and banking center.  We look forward to working with our Bahraini partners to make the most of the exciting opportunities for growth that this service offers."  

The new daily flight between the U.S. and Washington will enable U.S. companies to travel directly to Bahrain.  In 2005, the governments of Bahrain and the United States signaled the importance of their economic relationship by signing a free trade agreement.  The market is now validating that agreement by creating a direct link between the two countries to accommodate the growing business traffic. United Airlines' new route to Manama marks another milestone in the economic relationship between the United States and Bahrain.