The airline will serve the Atlantic islands’ capital Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel island and neighbouring island Terceira.

Flights will operate from Heathrow weekly, with Sao Miguel launching on 2 July until 3 September and Terceira on 10 July until 28 August.

Return fares to both destinations start from £79 in Euro Traveller and £208 in Club Europe. 

Ponta Delgada flights will leave Heathrow on Saturdays at 09.35, arriving at 12.40. The return service departs 13.35, arriving in London at 18.25.

Terceira flights are on Sundays, leaving at 07.55, arriving at 11.10. The return flight leaves at 12.10, arriving at 17.05.

The Azores archipelago is made up of nine islands, all appealing to nature lovers and hikers, as well as wildlife enthusiasts.

Neil Chernoff, BA’s director of network and alliances, said: “After a difficult 18 months, it’s fantastic to be in a position to launch two new routes next summer from Heathrow. 

“These two Islands in the Azores will be the perfect addition to our network, offering more choice in one of the most popular regions in Europe for British sunseekers.”