More BA Flights Coming to Barbados

British Airways (BA) flights coming from the UK will be increased from ten to 12 in the upcoming winter period, evidence that the 60-year relationship between the airline and Barbados is continuously being strengthened.

On Wednesday night at the Barbados Concorde Experience, top BA executives, along with tourism officials and other industry partners, came together to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the presence of the airline on the island.

BA’s Executive Vice President, Americas, Sean Doyle, explained that it was back in 1963 that the Lockheed Constellation flew to Barbados, but was forced to make a stop in Bermuda. This was followed by the introduction of jets, which signaled a new era for mass tourism in the country and for the airline.

“BA is committed to Barbados. Nothing signifies that more than the Concorde which flew to the island for many years,” Doyle stated.

District Manager, Nigel Blackett, noted that the increase in flights will begin from December 10 to February 25. “Outside of those periods we will operate 10, so it’s an increase over last winter where we had ten over the entire winter period. “

Doyle added, “Even though economic times have been very tough, we have been happy with the performance in our business to the Caribbean and Barbados. For our local team it has been a period of stability. In terms of our commitment to flying passengers to the market, we have been growing and growing again this winter.”

As it relates to the contentious Airline Passenger Duty tax, he anticipates that the reduction will pass through to passengers. “We anticipate that will boost demand to Barbados and the Caribbean,” he said.

The anniversary ceremony brought the curtain down on the activities to celebrate the six decade milestone, which started in February of this year. In addition to a number of promotions, the group also donated items to the YWCA earlier this week. BA officials also paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Tourism, Richard Sealy, on Wednesday.

During the event, specially invited guests learnt the history of Concorde through a multimedia presentation and were also given an opportunity to tour the Concorde. Officials also offered tokens of appreciation to the Barbados Government, a gesture which was reciprocated. Employee Wayde Bohne was also recognized for 44 years of sterling service to BA.

Source: The Barbados Advocate