British Airways celebrates 90 years of travel

British Airways celebrated a massive nine-decade milestone on Tuesday as it reminisced over its 90 year history.
On August 25, 1919 the world's first daily international air service was launched from London to Paris, operated by Air Transport & Travel Ltd  - a precursor to British Airways. 

More than 1.2 billion people have flown on the airlines extensive network over the past 90 years and it has become recognised as one of the world’s leading carriers.

In 2010, British Airways will celebrate another milestone with its 75th anniversary of flying Down Under.On 20th April, 1935 the first flight took off from London and touched down 12 days later in Brisbane.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown paid tribute to the airline: "British Airways has never lost the 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 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.”

As part of the celebrations, a giant crystallised Swarovski Elements Union Jack will be on display at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal 5 until September.

An internal exhibition will showcase memorabilia from nine decades of travel, while passengers in Terminal 5 have been treated to cabin crew and TV personality Kirsty Gallacher modelling vintage uniforms in the terminal in the lead up to its anniversary week.



Source = e-Travel Blackboard: 
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