British Airways has returned to Gatwick Airport on 29 March when its first short-haul service departed for Larnaca at 6:25am.
The airline had suspended its European operation at Gatwick Airport throughout the pandemic, moving a number of flights over to Heathrow.
The flight to Larnaca marks a milestone in the airline’s recovery as it finally returns to international short-haul flying from the airport.
The airline will operate from Gatwick as BA Euroflyer later in the year in a similar manner to the company’s existing subsidiary BA Cityflyer.
Customers will have the choice of 35 destinations to fly to from Gatwick before more destinations are added later this year.
The airline said that its return to Gatwick has also helped create jobs as it undertook both a cabin crew and pilot recruitment campaign to fill positions at its new subsidiary.
Tom Stoddart, Acting CEO British Airways Euroflyer, said: “I am really proud of what we have created at Gatwick, we have an excellent team with lots of new and exciting talent.
“I am looking forward in anticipation to see our newest subsidiary grow, adding new routes and providing customers with more options to get away on holiday with a premium British Airways service.”
Millar Smith, British Airways Euroflyer Crew member, said: “I was over the moon when I found out that I had been accepted as crew for British Airways, it is my dream job! Before this I worked as a 999 handler for the London Ambulance Service, which has been incredibly useful throughout my training with the airline. British Airways is a premium British airline and that is what excited me about the job role. My first service will be to Tenerife and I can’t wait!”
Customers flying on the airline’s new subsidiary will receive the same high level of service and benefits including a generous baggage allowance, free water and snacks, free seat selection at -24 hours and frequent flyer benefits which include lounge access.
All of the airline’s services will have a Club Europe (business class) cabin with access to a premium check-in experience, exclusive lounges and a complimentary gourmet meal and bar service on board.
Customers in the airline’s Euro Traveller (economy) cabin will be able to purchase food before travel which will include fresh options from Tom Kerridge as part of the airline’s ‘Speedbird Café’ menu and / or order ambient products and drinks onboard via their mobile phone.
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