By Victor Shalton
British Airways Expands Flights to Africa
Recently, British Airways announced an expansion of its services to Accra, Ghana, citing improved route performance metrics. The airline will increase its flights from the current daily nonstop service to 10 weekly flights, effective from the IATA’s Winter 2023 season.
This expansion includes the addition of three flights operating from London’s Gatwick Airport, utilizing a Boeing 777-200ER. The move aims to meet the growing demand for travel between the United Kingdom and Ghana, catering to both point-to-point passengers and those traveling to Manchester, U.K.; the United States and Eastern Canada.
Starting from Oct. 29, British Airways will enhance its connection between London and Accra, offering travelers more flight choices. The new route from Gatwick to Accra will operate three times a week, supplementing the existing daily service from London Heathrow Terminal 5.
With the introduction of flights from London Gatwick, British Airways offers Ghanaian travelers an alternative gateway to London. Premium customers, as well as Gold and Silver Executive Club members, can enjoy the recently refurbished lounges at London’s Gatwick Airport, providing a seamless and comfortable travel experience.
The expansion also provides increased cargo capacity on the route to Ghana, benefiting Ghanaian exporters who can now transport perishable and other goods more efficiently through IAG Cargo, the cargo division of the International Airlines Group.
The expansion of flights to Accra is part of British Airways’ broader strategy to restore and strengthen its Africa route network. The airline has recently added Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt to its network in Africa and has doubled the number of flights to Cairo since 2019. These developments reflect British Airways’ commitment to expanding its presence in Africa, providing customers with more options, enhanced products, and strategic partnerships. By carefully considering routes and regions with growth potential, the airline aims to optimize its network to serve the diverse needs of travelers.
“Restoring our Africa route network has given us an opportunity to introduce new aircraft, routes, products, and partnerships, providing customers with more flexibility, choice, and an enhanced travel experience,” Moran Birger, British Airways’ Head of Sales for Africa, Middle East, and South Asia, said.
To commemorate the start of the new services, British Airways is offering a launch special with attractive fares for travelers flying from London’s Gatwick Airport to Accra. Passengers can experience the airline’s renowned Club World and World Traveller cabins and onboard experience while taking advantage of these promotional fares.
Moreover, passengers on these flights will soon be greeted by the newly unveiled British Airways uniform. Designed by British-Ghanaian Saville Row fashion designer and tailor, Ozwald Boateng OBE, the uniform reflects the airline’s commitment to style and marks the first uniform redesign in 20 years.
Victor Shalton’s love for aviation can be traced to when he was 11-years-old. As a seasoned aviation writer, he takes pride in providing the best aviation coverage around the globe and is passionate about advancing his skills in the aviation space. In addition, he loves travelling, writing, arts and while his speaking engagements have taken him around the world, he is proud to call Nairobi home.