British Airways celebrates 90 years

British Airways is celebrating the 90th anniversary of its first official flight today (August 25th).

On August 25th, 1919, Air Transport and Travel Ltd - a precursor to British Airways - operated the world's first daily international air service when it flew from London to Paris.

Since then, British Airways has established itself as one of the world's leading international airlines and carried more than 1.2 billion passengers on flights across the globe.

Prime minister Gordon Brown congratulated the airline on its 90th anniversary and said that it had "never lost the pioneering spirit" that saw it take to the skies nine decades ago.

British Airways chairman Martin Broughton said: "We provided the first air links to far-flung capitals in the days of empire, flew Winston Churchill across the Atlantic during wartime, brought Queen Elizabeth back to Britain after the passing of George VI [and] repeatedly led the way with aircraft innovation."

He added: "We have a rich history supporting Britain and will carry this forward to our centenary and beyond."

People flying into Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport will be able to see a giant bejewelled Union Jack flag loaned to British Airways by Swarovski for its anniversary celebrations, which will be on display until September.

Posted by Carrie, 25 August 2009 16:45

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• Paris
• London
• British Airways