Gulf Air Signs MOU with Tamkeen

The MoU sees Gulf Air and Tamkeen join forces to provide a tailored comprehensive programme of intensive on-the-job training for Bahraini nationals who wish to pursue careers in aviation as Aircraft Technicians or Engineers. Aircraft Technicians will undergo comprehensive on-the-job training for one year to qualify in the field while Engineers will participate in on-the-job training for two years. Under this agreement 22 candidates will join Gulf Air as Trainee Engineers and 18 as Trainee Aircraft Technicians. 

Tamkeen’s chairman and acting chief executive, Shaikh Mohammed Bin Essa Al Khalifa, commented: “Tamkeen is committed to developing the skills and capabilities of Bahrainis, and within this framework, we work diligently to ensure that they receive the right and sufficient type of training in order to allow them to achieve their desired professional goals and objectives. As a result, we continue to provide Bahrainis with skills development as part of the Aeronautic Engineering Training programme in Gulf Air. The 40 Bahraini Nationals represent the final batch of students who entered the aviation training programme.” 

Gulf Air Acting chief executive officer Maher Salman Al-Musallam said: “As the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, one of Gulf Air’s long-term goals is to help enhance the aviation skills and experience of Bahrainis. Accordingly, we are pleased to partner with Tamkeen yet again to provide the necessary on-the-job experience for these 40 Bahraini nationals. We are delighted to support the strengthening of the Kingdom’s people development further affirming our commitment to developing a national workforce of aviation professionals.” 

The airline’s longstanding relationship with Tamkeen has previously provided comprehensive training for Bahraini pilots, engineers and cabin crew. In 2010 Gulf Air became the first airline in the GCC to launch a joint-initiative with Tamkeen to encourage more Bahrainis to join the national carrier in key customer-facing positions such as flight crew. In 2013 Gulf Air recorded its highest Bahrainisation level in its history – 65% – continuing to lead the way amongst regional competitors in terms of nationalization. The airline continues to actively work with its sister companies to develop the skills of young Bahraini aviation professionals in the Kingdom further reinforcing its commitment to the local community.