MANAMA: Gulf Air yesterday hit back at a parliament decision to reject a BD664.3 million government bailout of the airline.

MPs vetoed the rescue plan during its weekly session and it will be now reviewed by the Shura Council before a final decision is taken.

"The requirement for additional funding is the direct result of a series of unprecedented regional and economic factors, including a significant increase in fuel costs that Gulf Air faced, in common with other carriers around the world," said the airline. "Despite its losses, the national carrier contributes hundreds of millions of dinar annually to the country's GDP and has a positive and wider impact on several other local businesses such as hospitality, transport and tourism."