British Airways today officially launched its new short-haul subsidiary due to operate from London Gatwick Airport starting in March. Tickets for the subsidiary, known as BA Euroflyer, went on sale today, with 35 destinations making the initial cut. The new subsidiary comes as British Airways seeks to remain competitive at an airport dominated by low-cost carriers.
Worldwide, many airlines had to ground fleets and suspend operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In some cases, this created opportunities for airlines. For British Airways, it allowed the airline to reassess a part of its business that had been losing money since long before the pandemic.
Welcome BA Euroflyer
Around a month ago, IAG’s CEO, Luis Gallego, revealed that the airline group would be seeking to launch British Airways’ new short-haul London Gatwick subsidiary in March, assuming all went to plan. It seems all is going to plan, as today British Airways revealed that its new subsidiary would indeed take to the skies in March.
According to the airline, flights with the subsidiary will begin on March 29th, 2022. This is a natural date to begin operations, as it is when the IATA summer schedule kicks in. On the first day of operations, flights will go to Amsterdam, Larnaca, Paphos, Seville, Tenerife, and Verona. Just over a month later, on May 4th, Athens will become the 35th destination to launch.
For the time being, British Airways has only revealed 35 destinations due to be operated by the subsidiary. When operations launch in March, three aircraft will be used. This will increase to 18 jets by the end of May. BA Euroflyer likely won’t yet have its AOC in March, according to the airline. With this in mind, British Airways’ mainline fleet will operate flights from Gatwick until they can transfer to the new AOC.
The same service as mainline British Airways
There is currently a difference between British Airways short-haul and BA Cityflyer. BA Cityflyer operates Embraer aircraft out of London City and has complimentary refreshments, including alcohol in the economy cabin.
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According to the airline, from a passenger’s perception, there should be no difference when flying on mainline British Airways or BA Euroflyer. The two airlines will offer the same benefits to both passengers on identical aircraft. The only difference will be the price. British Airways revealed that fares start at £39 ($51.62) and will be competitive with London Gatwick’s “no-frills” carriers.
Commenting on the announcement, British Airways CEO Sean Doyle said,
“Today is a landmark moment for British Airways. The creation of a new British Airways short-haul organisation means Gatwick customers will benefit from access to a premium service from the UK’s flag carrier at competitive prices. We are looking forward to bringing a short-haul network back to Gatwick…”
What do you make of British Airways’ Euroflyer Plans? Let us know what you think and why in the comments!
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