And the excitement on board today’s first British Airways flight departing from Heathrow to New York JFK – on the day that America’s international borders reopen to fully vaccinated travellers – is palpable.
US flags adorn the interior of first class, and the cabin crew are beaming and particularly chatty as they welcome us on board the full flight.
To mark the occasion, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic put their longstanding rivalries aside and perform an impressive synchronised take-off from Terminal 5.
Once we are airborne, the cabin is filled with the sound of cheering and applause as we all gaze out the window at the Virgin Atlantic plane, soaring alongside us like a shiny swan. It’s a feat for the aviation industry and feels like a momentous symbol of hope and camaraderie in these strange times.
The feeling of positivity is echoed by British Airways chief executive Sean Doyle, who is on board the flight and reinforces the airline’s commitment to sustainability by revealing that today’s flight is powered by 35% sustainable aviation fuel.
He also confirms plans to power 10% of all British Airways flights by sustainable aviation fuel by 2030, and a commitment to becoming a net-zero business by 2050.
After the excitement of take-off, it’s time to kick back and relax as we wait eagerly for touchdown in New York. After 19 months of hard times for the travel industry, today feels like a landmark day. So start spreading the news – the US is back.
