BA upgrades usher in ‚Äúnew chapter”

BA upgrades usher in ‚Äúnew chapter”
By admin


British Airways will operate its newest aircraft on services between London and Sydney next year as it further attempts to demonstrate its commitment to Australia.

From the European 2013 summer, flights will be operated by a new Boeing 777-300ER, replacing the 747-400, a move that will herald a “new chapter” in services, BA said.

In a further change, flights will move from Heathrow Terminal 3 to Terminal 5 from where BA operates to European destinations.

BA said it will provide smoother connections for onward travel from London while premium passengers will have access to newer lounges.The aircraft upgrade and shift to T5 follows a statement issued earlier this month that BA had no intention of withdrawing from Australia.

The declaration followed a BA submission to Australia’s competition regulator in which it said its alliance with Qantas was a “vital aspect” of operating to Australia. With that alliance ending next March, it led to media speculation that BA was considering exiting the market.

Speaking of the latest development, BA general manager Middle East and Asia Pacific, James Cassidy, said: “We have served Australia for 77 years and we are keen to continue offering travellers excellent services and value.

“Our new initiatives mark a new chapter in our proud history with Australia and underscores our commitment to the route.”

Along with the end of the Joint Services Agreement (JSA) with Qantas, codeshares between the carriers on the Frankfurt-Singapore-Sydney route will be cancelled from March 31 while the Hong Kong to Heathrow codeshare will end from the same date.

BA said it is exploring options post-JSA.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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