Bahrain’s national carrier Gulf Air celebrated Bahraini Women’s Day at airline’s Muharraq headquarters.
“I take this opportunity to congratulate all Bahraini women for their significant achievements and contributions to the Kingdom as we celebrate Bahraini Women’s Day initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Women,” Deputy Chief Executive Officer Capt Maher Al Musallam said.
“National carrier Gulf Air has played a key role in the development of the Kingdom, and the hundreds of female employees, working with the airline for years have played a key role in this development. My special congratulations go to all Gulf Air women for their dedication and support to their national carrier.”
Capt. Al Musallam also congratulated Vanessa Umba, who has been promoted to the position of Captain – the first female pilot at Gulf Air to reach the position and two other female executives, Sahar Ataei, the first female Acting Chief Financial Officer and Eman Mandeel, the first female licensed engineer for their dedication and achievements.
Umba, who joined Gulf Air in 2006 as a First Officer flying A330/A340, was promoted as Captain after she successfully completed all requirements and tests for the post.
“We are glad to have got the first female Captain at Gulf Air. Vanessa has always been very passionate about aviation and demonstrated her professionalism and expertise of the job throughout her career with Gulf Air. She deserves the promotion and on behalf of Gulf Air management and staff I wish her all success.”
“It’s a great feeling to have been promoted to become a Captain that has happened to me at Gulf Air. I would like to thank my colleagues and the management that has given me the best working environment and support which has encouraged me to become a captain,” Umba added.