Gulf Air announced the appointment of Des Vertannes to the position of Head of Cargo with immediate effect. In his new role he will report directly to Gulf Air’s Vice President – Business Units, Ali Murtada
“This senior appointment will further strengthen and help grow our cargo operation to take advantage of the significant future growth opportunities in the region and our strong regional and international network,” says Murtada. “Des has a wealth of cargo experience and this strategic appointment increases the focus on our cargo business.”
Vertannes, a 35-year veteran of the cargo and air freight business, started his career with British Airways and has also worked with, among others, Air Canada and Menzies Aviation across the UK, USA and Europe.
“Gulf Air has a huge pedigree in the region when it comes to its cargo service,” he says. “I intend to build on that lineage and the vibrance of the new brand in what is a stimulating, energetic yet still relatively unsophisticated industry.”
Vertannes will be involved in all aspects of Gulf Air’s cargo strategy, building on the success that Murtada and his team has achieved over the last two years.
“The air cargo industry has a track record of solid and steady growth and the prediction is this will continue for some years to come. The liberalisation of air trade will demand more air cargo movements and I am determined to ensure Gulf Air is well placed to compete and meet that demand.
“My first job will be the development of a new strategic plan in line with the new two hub strategy announced at last week’s board meeting,” he adds. “This will include progressing the freighter implementation programme.”
About Gulf Air
Founded in 1950, Gulf Air, owned by the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman, is the only truly Pan Gulf carrier in the Middle East region.
The regional, geographic and cultural values that the airline has embraced over more than half a century are still central to defining its brand and service ethos.
Today the airline’s network stretches from Europe to Asia and covers 50 cities in 30 countries. The fleet comprises 34 aircraft and has the distinct advantage of possessing the strongest network across the Middle East.
A platform for sustained commercial operation has been established over the past three years as part of a multi-phased turnaround programme. It has also provided a framework for a succession of innovative products and services including the unique Sky Chefs and Sky Nannies that form part of Gulf Air’s ’smart airline, successful business’ vision.
International recognition has been achieved as a result of the turnaround programme leading to numerous awards for the airline’s innovative and high quality products and services: These include:
• Best Onboard Catering in First and Business Class (Skytrax World Airline Catering Awards 2005)
• Best designed in-flight magazine (American Creativity Awards,2005)
• Middle East Leading First Class Airline (World Travel Awards 2005)
• World’s Leading Airport Lounge (World Travel Awards 2005)
• Middle East & North African Platinum Best Airline (MENA Travel Awards 2004
• Most Improved Airline (Skytrax Awards 2004)
• Middle East First Class Airline (Arabian Business Awards)
• Best new product launch for in-flight services (PAX international Readership Awards)
• Best First Class Onboard Food (Skytrax Food Category 2004)
• Best Business Class Check-in (Skytrax Check-in Category 2004)
• Middle East region’s best airport restaurant for its restaurant in Bahrain International Airport lounge (PAX International Readership Awards 2005)
