News from British Airways

Ever wondered how A-listers like to fly? Well, thanks to BA’s new safety video, you can see the likes of tennis superstar Emma Radacanu, Dragons’ Den entrepreneur Steven Bartlett, rapper Little Simz and more, take to the skies. Embracing the spirit of Britain in everything – from our obsession with the weather to a passion for deep-fried fish – the five-minute video also spotlights all the things that make the UK truly original, from its diverse regions to Britons’ inimitable sense of humour.

The safety clip also features a range of British Airways colleagues from across the company in their land- and air-based roles, as well as ordinary people from around the country taking part in the demonstration.

The video is being shown on all long-haul flights with in-flight entertainment systems, so look forward to seeing it in the skies soon, or watch it now here.

The travellers have spoken, the reviews are in, and the British Airways Holidays Customer Excellence Award recipients have been announced. These are the properties around the world going above and beyond to give their guests the ultimate stay – as reviewed by customers. We’re talking meticulous out-of-hours attention, personal touches and generally exceeding expectations.

How does British Airways Holidays choose its hospitality champions? After arriving home from a trip, customers are asked to rate their hotel out of five across categories including location, service and value for money, as well as an overall score out of five stars. Those that receive a minimum of ten reviews, and secure a rating between 4.5 and 5 stars, are eligible for a Customer Excellence Award.

Last year, British Airways Holidays collated more than 67,000 verified reviews for the hotels it works with and awarded close to 540 awards to the top four per cent. What’s more, 30 properties have been lauded each year since the scheme’s launch seven years ago. So, if you’re considering a visit to Malta, Madeira, St Lucia, Dubai – and more – these are the places to book a room in right now.

On-board shopping is a great way of last-minute gifting (or just scratching that ‘treat yourself’ itch). Luckily this month sees High Life Shop add a range of luxurious – and eminently giftable – items to its range, and all from prestigious homegrown brands. 

If you’re after some new statement jewels, set your sights on Welsh jeweller Clogau, which has introduced five delicate new items to its collection, including the London Bus and Royal Crown Milestones Bead set. Tutti & Co also creates beautiful, handcrafted works (above), here made from polished brass with silver and gold plating. If it’s ‘wow factor’ you’re after, Hot Diamonds is one to watch. An ethically conscious British brand, its products are crafted from 925 sterling silver and hand set with real diamonds.

Delectable chocolates from Royal Warrant-awarded Prestat, perfectly flavoured tea from the English Tea Shop Organic and sumptuous scents from Jo Malone London’s new travel collection are also on offer, while for kids, a cute Ty Mr Bean Teddy Bear is sure to keep them amused in the air and on the ground.

Feeling peckish? Well, travellers flying from Gatwick on British Airways’ short-haul subsidiary BA Euroflyer can now enjoy a new range of food and drink options. New items include Ploughman's veggie or meat snack boxes, a Time for Tea box that includes a sultana scone, clotted cream, preserve and a fudge bite, plus a selection of savoury or sweet snacks.

New drinks on offer include Jimmy’s Iced Coffee and Punchy soft drinks. Travellers can also pre-purchase from a wider online Speedbird Café menu for delicacies such as Tom Kerridge’s coronation chicken sandwiches and sweet and spicy falafel wraps.

Last month, the country witnessed the coronation of King Charles III, a splendid and star-studded affair that British Airways echoed with rivalled pomp and ceremony and a mouthwatering spread at Heathrow Terminal 5’s Galleries Club and First Lounges. From 5-8 May, lounge guests were invited to toast the King with a flute of Bottega prosecco, while snacks included Howdah crisps, Bendicks and Cadbury treats, plus chocolate corgis courtesy of luxury brand Choc on Choc. This month, British Airways will be laying on yet more festivities in lounges in celebration of Pride and Father’s Day so, if you’re due to pass through T5 in the coming weeks, watch this space.