Beond signs LoI to launch Bahrain-based airline and aviation center

Boutique premium airline beOnd has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Civil Aviation Affairs Bahrain to establish a Bahrain-based airline and aviation center of excellence.

The strategic move marks a major step in strengthening Bahrain’s aviation sector while supporting long-term economic diversification goals under Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.

Under the proposed plan, the initiative is expected to create more than 1,200 direct high-skilled jobs and support over 6,000 indirect roles across tourism, hospitality, logistics, and related industries. The airline also aims to base up to 10 premium aircraft in Bahrain by 2030, further enhancing the kingdom’s international air connectivity.

In addition to fleet expansion, the partnership will focus on developing specialized training programs for pilots, cabin crew, engineers, and aviation professionals. The aviation center of excellence is designed to strengthen Bahrain’s local talent pipeline and position the kingdom as a regional hub for premium travel and aviation expertise.

Economically, the project is projected to contribute between $1.2 billion and $1.5 billion to Bahrain’s GDP during its first five years of operation, reinforcing the country’s ambitions to expand high-value sectors beyond oil.

The agreement signals growing confidence in Bahrain’s aviation ecosystem and its strategic location, with stakeholders viewing the partnership as a catalyst for sustainable growth and enhanced global connectivity.