An axial gas thrust bearing for rotors (4) in rotating machinery according to the present invention comprises at least one radial disk (5), integral with or fastened to the rotor (4) and one fixed seal (2) facing each disk (5) or two fixed seals (2) positioned to surround each disk (5), lower portions of the seals (2) being situated in distance from the rotor (4) to allow the inflow of compressed fluid passing in the gap between the respective disk (5) and seals (2), thereby combining the properties of a balance piston and thrust bearing disk.