The former boss of airBaltic Martin Gauss has joined Gulf Air, the flag carrier of Bahrain, as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
The Chair of Gulf Air Group, Khalid Taqi, announced on September 17, 2025, that Gauss would take up the reins at the carrier, praising his “distinguished career in airline leadership” and “extensive experience”.
airBaltic and Gauss parted ways in April 2025, following a shareholder meeting. Latvian politicians said that the government had lost confidence in the carrier’s top management.
“I am honoured to join Gulf Air as CEO. The airline has a rich legacy as Bahrain’s national carrier, and I look forward to working with the team to build on this strong foundation. Together, we will continue Gulf Air’s transformation journey and enhance its competitiveness regionally and globally,” said Gauss.
In a statement, Gulf Air said that it had “confidence” in Gauss’ ability to “advance the national carrier, enhance competitiveness, strengthen corporate culture, expand the global network, and improve operational performance, thereby further solidifying Gulf Air’s position as a proud representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain on the international stage”.
من أول خطوة إلى أول رحلة…
كل عام وكل أب بألف خير!#طيران_الخليج #البحرين #يوم_الأب pic.twitter.com/bzSieLFNlg— Gulf Air (@GulfAir) June 15, 2025
The Bahrain carrier also announced that Gulf Air Group CEO, Jeffrey Goh would be leaving the company.
The airline thanked Goh for his “dedication and achievements, particularly in guiding Gulf Air Group through the post-COVID-19 recovery”.
“It has been a great honor to lead Gulf Air Group during this pivotal phase of its journey. I am grateful to the Board, employees, and all our partners for their tremendous support during my tenure as Group CEO,” said Goh.
He added: “Together, we faced exceptional challenges and advanced the Group’s transformation toward the future. Gulf Air Group has a proud legacy that positions it for continued growth and success.”
Gauss will begin his tenure as Gulf Air CEO on November 4, 2025.
