British Airways
About British Airways
Established in 1974, British Airways is one of the largest airlines in the United Kingdom, flying to over 200 worldwide destinations. This leading global brand in the aviation industry is owned by Madrid-based holding company IAG. Unsurprisingly, London Heathrow Airport (one of the biggest in the UK) is the main operating headquarters for British Airways.
Known for their impeccable service and dependability, British Airways cater to both casual and business flyers. Over the years, British Airways has proven itself as a franchise thoroughly dedicated to environmental sustainability and local community initiatives. Yet their main stand-out accomplishment is their ability to provide a wide range of flights both domestically and worldwide. With BA you can book flights knowing that you'll be flying in comfort and with peace of mind within one of their many acclaimed aeroplanes including the likes of Boeing 747s and Boeing 777s.
For long-haul flights, British Airways is a great option because they provide many onboard packages to keep you and your family entertained throughout the journey. You can start with a minimal package that gets you access to onboard Wi-Fi, essentially allowing you to stay connected to the world from the comfort of your seat, at thousands of miles altitude. Another option is the high-life entertainment package, which allows you to watch your favourite movies on the go. If you've got children, you'll probably want to make the most of the Kids Zone, which keeps the munchkins entertained with games and shows.
If that wasn't enough, British Airways also provides you with a multi-tier membership system. Joining this scheme will allow you to take advantage of lucrative perks such as first-class check-in and boarding, free seat selection at the booking stage and access to first lounges.
British Airways check-in information
Flying can be incredibly stressful for lots of reasons. With this in mind, British Airways puts its customers first and makes its system as smooth and convenient as possible. One way they do this is by offering multiple options for checking in.
If you'd rather wait to check in when you arrive at the airport, then British Airways provides you with a high quality customer service experience at one of their many dedicated desks in the departures area. When you get to the desk, you'll be assisted by friendly and helpful staff.
You also have the option of checking in online, which is usually available up to 24 hours before your flight is set to depart. Download the Opodo app, check in, receive your boarding pass and pick your seat with a few taps on your mobile. It's that straightforward! Depending on the airport, you might even be able to use one of British Airways' self-service check-in kiosks. These kiosks basically offer you the same experience as what you'd get online, but from a physical stand within the airport.
British Airways cabin baggage information
You'll be pleased to hear that their cabin baggage policy is very generous. All customers are allowed to bring a hand bag in the cabin, with dimensions of up to 40 x 30 x 15cm and weighing up to 23kg.
For a cabin bag, you're looking at dimensions of up to 56 x 45 x 25cm. Again, this shouldn't exceed 23kg. It's important to remember that a larger bag may be put into the hold and could cost more.
British Airways hold luggage information
Luckily for you, British Airways are just as generous with their hold luggage as they are with their cabin baggage. When flying with British Airways, you can choose from a wide variety of baggage options.
Checked bags have to be within the dimensions of 90 x 75 x 43cm. Note that basic economy ticket-holders will only be allowed cabin and hand luggage, though you will be entitled to one 23kg bag with an economy ticket. Premium economy allows you an additional 23kg bag, business class allows two 32kg bags and first class allows three 32kg bags.
If you've taken advantage of the multi-tiered membership system we mentioned earlier, then you could be able to take advantage of free checked luggage, depending on which tier you choose. Also, if you specify your needs in advance, British Airways can handle more robust items as well as cater for luggage that exceeds the weight requirement. For example, if you're hauling around sporting or musical equipment, you should definitely highlight your situation as early as possible so that the airline can make appropriate arrangements.
How to find cheap flights with British Airways
How do I contact British Airways' customer services?
The best way to get in contact with British Airways customer service is to call 0344 493 0787 and select from several options that fit your request. The customer service line is open from 7:30 to 20:00 every day of the week. You can also reach out through the British Airways website by going to customer support, by email or through social media.
Does British Airways allow unaccompanied minors to fly?
British Airways will allow minors over the age of 14 to fly alone. However, anybody under this age must be accompanied by a guardian over the age of 16.
What is the hand luggage allowance on British Airways?
Hand luggage on British Airways is any carry-on that is within the dimensions 40 x 30 x 15cm and doesn't exceed 23kg. Customers are also allowed to bring on one personal item and a cabin bag depending on their booking information.
Are pets allowed on British Airways flights?
Only recognised service dogs are allowed to travel in the cabin of a British Airways flight, all other pets must travel in a waterproof bag or cage.