British Airways praises the
connection to Hong-Kong which is one of the oldest route in
aviation history by providing discounted fares for its customers
travelling in May.
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On
24 March 1936, British Airways’ predecessor Imperial Airways became
the first commercial airliner to land at Kai Tak Airport.
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London -Hong Kong route is turning 80 years old this years and British Airways celebrates the birthday by offering special -anniversary fares for customers flying this journey.
The maiden flight took off on March 14, 1936 and took 10
days to complete, stopping at 24 different cities across the world
and a one way ticket cost £ 175 which
is equivalent of more than £11.000 in today's money.
“
We would like to take this
opportunity to thank all our customers for their support and loyalty
over the decades so we’re pleased to be offering a special £500
fare” said Richard Tams British Airways' executive vice president.
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In
1940, the merge of Imperial Airways and British Airways Ltd., created
the new airline, British Overseas Airways Corporation (B.O.A.C).
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The
European operator also highlighted on its statement that the very
first journey involved more than seven different aircraft including a
short Scipio flying boat and Imperial Airways' DH86.
Among others the stops on route including Paris(France), Brindisi(Italy), Athens(Greece), Baghdad(Iraq), Delhi(India) and Bangkok(Thailand) to change aircraft and refuelling so passengers would stay overnight in hotel.
“That
was a very important link and it helped open the skies for trade,
leisure and family travel between the two cities” said Richard Tams
British Airways' executive vice president for China and adding:
“British Airways has never lost the pioneering spirit and the
vision that saw it take to the skies with the first commercial
service between Hong Kong and London 80 years ago”
Now
days, the airline operates 14 non-stop flights a week between the two
cities, with overnight services operated by the Boeing 777 and the
super jumbo Airbus A380.
Furthermore
from March 30, British Airways First, Club World and World Traveller
Plus customers will also be able to enjoy special celebration dishes
on board all flights to Hong Kong. As the airline's chefs carefully
crafted three different dishes by blending elements from menus dating
back to the 1950s and 60s with modern day culinary techniques and
locally sourced ingredients.
