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British Airways, the UK’s national airline, is celebrating a significant milestone—100 years of flying between the UK and India. This centenary marks a century of fostering economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between the two nations, reinforcing the airline’s long-standing commitment to this crucial market.
British Airways first began its journey to India in 1924 through its predecessor, Imperial Airways, when flights between London and New Delhi took 14 days. Today, with a vastly improved aviation network, British Airways connects five Indian cities—Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad—offering more than 50 flights weekly, making it the largest European carrier operating in India. The airline employs over 2,500 staff members across India and maintains crew bases in all five cities.
To commemorate the occasion, Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Chairman and Chief Executive, co-hosted a special event on 17th October with British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron. The event, held at the High Commissioner’s residence in New Delhi, was attended by customers, employees, and key partners.
The event celebrated the rich history of British Airways in India, with a display of vintage memorabilia, uniforms, and photographs reflecting the airline’s evolution. In his address, Sean Doyle emphasised the importance of the Indian market, stating, “We are immensely proud of our long history with India. Reaching this centenary milestone underscores our commitment to one of our most significant routes, where we have fully restored capacity to pre-pandemic levels, further strengthening the connection between the UK and India.”
Lindy Cameron, British High Commissioner to India, also praised the airline’s role in fostering economic growth between the two countries, noting, “The UK and India’s trade and investment relationship is worth over GBP 39 billion, supporting over 700,000 jobs. British Airways is a key part of this relationship, serving as a vital bridge that connects our people and economies.”
To make the centenary celebrations even more special for passengers, British Airways has introduced a limited-time centenary inflight experience. Until the end of November 2024, passengers flying with British Airways can enjoy a curated menu of traditional Indian dishes, a special spiced chai from Twinings, and a single malt from Rajasthan in business class. The inflight entertainment system has also been updated to feature over 100 Indian films, offering a blend of British service with Indian culture across all cabin classes.
Investment in India and Future Plans
In addition to celebrating its centenary, British Airways is focused on the future. The airline recently announced a GBP 7 billion investment plan in March 2024, aimed at enhancing customer experience, operational efficiency, and sustainability. This two-year transformation program includes modernization of its fleet, IT infrastructure, and service offerings, with a strong focus on environmental initiatives.
British Airways also expanded its operational presence in India earlier this year by opening a second call center in Noida, further cementing its commitment to the Indian market. The airline’s investments in India are part of a broader strategy to support trade, business, and tourism routes between the two countries, ensuring continued economic prosperity for both nations.
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