British Airways is the airline most used by business travellers in the UK, according to a new study.

The latest Barclaycard Business Travel Survey shows that the carrier was used by 28 per cent of those travelling for business purposes last year, dwarfing figures for bmi (six per cent) and Virgin Atlantic (three per cent).

Despite the slowing economy, more than two in five business travellers jetted overseas more last year than they did in 2006, the poll also found, with a third planning to travel more this year than they did in 2007.

Just over one in ten of those surveyed said they took a business class flight last year, however, compared with 41 per cent in 2001, indicating that growing numbers of firms are looking to cut costs by travelling in other cabin classes.

"Travelling on business to expand into new markets or win new business has always been an indicator of economic confidence," commented Denise Leleux, director of commercial cards for Barclaycard Business.

"This year's results show that confidence is still there and that business people are still positive about economic and business growth."

Growing numbers of airlines are targeting first and business class travellers by revamping or launching premium lounges - Virgin Atlantic unveiled its new Clubhouse for its Upper Class passengers in Boston last month.

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