Manama: Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, attended the agreement signing between Bahrain Airport Company and Valo Aviation. The signing ceremony was also attended by notable figures including Khalid Hussain Taqi, Chairman of Gulf Air Group; Hussain Ahmed Rashid Al Shuail, Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs; Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, CEO of Bahrain Airport Company; and Hanna Hakamo, CEO of Valo Aviation.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed emphasized the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment to developing its private aviation sector as an essential component of the air transport system. This development is aimed at keeping pace with both regional and international market trends. He highlighted the strategic support in place to create a modern operating environment that attracts investors and contributes to the diversification of the national economy.
Dr. Shaikh Abdulla also noted that advanced private aviation infrastructure is crucial for reinforcing Bahrain International Airport's status as an efficient center for aviation services. He pointed out that the new partnership with Valo Aviation reflects a strong confidence in Bahrain's operating environment and enhances the cooperation between the ministry and Gulf Air Group to further develop the sector.
The agreement includes the construction of a facility dedicated to maintenance, repair, and ground services for private jets at Bahrain International Airport. This facility will enable Valo Aviation to build a 6,000-square-metre state-of-the-art VIP jet facility, which supports its plans for operational expansion and sustainability in Bahrain.
Khalid Hussain Taqi stated that this partnership aligns with Gulf Air Group's strategy to establish the Kingdom as a regional hub for high-quality air services, featuring sustainable infrastructure that meets market demands and attracts investors. Meanwhile, Hanna Hakamo described the agreement as a major step for Valo Aviation, marking a long-term investment in supporting modern business jets such as the Falcon 10X and Gulfstream G700. She expressed her gratitude for the support from the ministry and Bahrain Airport Company, reaffirming the company's commitment to sustainable investment and quality job creation in the aviation sector.