Faster and smarter in the app... Open app

British Airways reaches landmark

Prime Minister Gordon Brown was among the first to congratulate British Airways as the UK's flagship airline reached its 90th birthday.

The airline began the world's first daily international air service on August 25, 1919, and has gone on to carry more than 1.2 billion customers to become one of the world's leading airlines.

Mr Brown said: "British Airways has never lost that pioneering spirit and vision that saw it take to the skies with the world's first daily international flight from London to Paris on this day in 1919.

"Ninety years on, the world's most iconic airline is still proudly flying the flag and remains a great British brand. Many congratulations to all its staff, past and present, on this special day."

British Airways chairman Martin Broughton said: "Over the past nine decades, British Airways has played its part in many historic episodes. We provided the first air links to far-flung capitals in the days of the empire, flew Winston Churchill across the Atlantic during wartime, brought Queen Elizabeth back to Britain after the passing of George VI, repeatedly led the way with aircraft innovation and have often proudly transported home our sports teams from success overseas.

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

To mark the anniversary, British Airways is to host an exhibition showcasing memorabilia from nine decades of travel at Heathrow's Terminal 5.

Flying with British Airways? Remember to complement your flight with great value airport parking from Holiday Extras.