The first BA flight to the island’s Grantley Adams International airport operated by a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft took off at the weekend.

The four-class aircraft features eight First seats, 48 Club Suite business class seats, 35 World Traveller Plus premium economy seats and 165 World Traveller economy seats.

BA’s decision to bolster its Barbados service coincides with the 70th anniversary of the UK’s flag carrier operating to the island.

Cheryl Carter, UK director of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, said: “We are truly honoured British Airways has chosen to deploy its prestigious Dreamliner 787-10 aircraft to Barbados.

“This shows BA’s confidence in the robust passenger demand for travel between the UK and Barbados. We eagerly anticipate welcoming passengers to our beautiful island paradise, and are delighted with the enduring partnership we share with BA.”

Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ chief planning and strategy officer, added: “We are thrilled to be increasing capacity on the route with a larger aircraft and the launch of a new double daily service from Heathrow.

“This is a testament to the popularity of the route from a leisure and business perspective, and its importance as a link for visiting friends and relatives.”