British Airways is marking a significant milestone: 25 years of service as the UK flag carrier at London City Airport. The London airport is the capital’s most centrally located aviation hub.
To celebrate this anniversary, their subsidiary BA Cityflyer is offering discounts of up to 25% on popular European destinations. Travelers can take advantage of these special fares by booking before November 11, 2024, for trips until March 31, 2025.
Highlights include flights to Florence’s culinary paradise from £57 each way, Amsterdam’s cycling paradise from £77 each way, and Berlin’s vibrant nightlife scene from £64 each way.
From Sheffield to London City
The journey began on November 5, 1999 with British Regional Airlines, then a British Airways franchise partner based in Manchester. The airline launched a thrice-daily weekday service from Sheffield to London City.
Since then, over 27 million passengers have flown under British Airways’ colors, including services operated by former subsidiaries like BA Connect.
London City Airport, nestled in the heart of London’s historic Royal Docks, has undergone significant transformation since its opening in 1987.
The airport’s unique steep approach over London’s skyline and short runway require specially trained pilots and modified aircraft. This makes it a distinctive operation in British Airways’ network.
The airport’s proximity to Canary Wharf and the City of London, coupled with excellent transport links via the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), has made it particularly popular with business travelers.
Recent terminal expansions and technological upgrades have enhanced passenger experience while maintaining the airport’s signature 20-minute check-in to gate promise.
BA Cityflyer Network Growth
Since launching operations at London City in 2007, BA Cityflyer has expanded its network to more than 50 European destinations. Long-standing routes include Frankfurt and Geneva, while Edinburgh ranks as the most popular destination. This is followed closely by Glasgow, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt.
The airline operates a fleet of modern Embraer aircraft, specifically configured for London City Airport’s unique requirements.
Now the largest operator at London City Airport, BA Cityflyer serves 26 short-haul routes, with Mykonos being the furthest destination. The airline has played a crucial role in the airport’s growth, which now serves over 5 million passengers annually.
“London City offers exceptional accessibility and efficiency,” says BA Cityflyer CEO Tom Stoddart. “Passengers can move from check-in to gate in just 20 minutes.”
“This quarter-century milestone reflects our team’s dedication to growing our services while maintaining the highest standards of safety and customer service.”
London City Airport CEO Alison FitzGerald adds: “This 25-year partnership with British Airways and BA Cityflyer marks a crucial milestone for London City Airport.”
“As London’s most central airport offering premium service, we’re thrilled to present these anniversary travel deals to our passengers. The airport’s continued investment in infrastructure and sustainability initiatives demonstrates our commitment to providing an unparalleled travel experience.”
Conclusion
BA Cityflyer’s workforce now exceeds 500 employees, including Tracy Gani, who started as cabin crew with British Regional Airlines 25 years ago.
Now serving as Compliance Manager, she reflects: “From operating the Sheffield route 25 years ago to where we are today, the transformation has been remarkable. Having worked across various BA subsidiary airlines since my cabin crew days, I’m proud to be part of BA Cityflyer’s journey.”
Looking ahead, London City Airport continues to implement its master plan for sustainable growth, including investments in terminal facilities, digital technology, and environmental initiatives.
The airport aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030. Meanwhile, it maintains its position as London’s most convenient airport for both leisure and business travelers.
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