Aviation and Airlines (Commonwealth Union) _ British Airways is expanding its European offerings from London Heathrow this winter with the introduction of four new short-haul routes. The airline will operate three weekly services each to Riga and Belgrade, starting in late October, providing travellers with more direct options to explore new countries and connect to important business hubs. Additionally, British Airways will fly 12 times weekly to Cologne from October and once weekly to Turin on Sundays from December.
Cologne Bonn Airport is set to become an important destination for British Airways, serving as a vital unconnected city. The airport will offer several weekly flights operated by Eurowings and Ryanair, connecting it to various London airports. With its status as a prominent business hub in Germany, Cologne draws numerous business travelers seeking opportunities in the city’s thriving economy. Additionally, the city is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors eager to explore its rich cultural heritage, including the renowned Cologne Cathedral, a symbol of the city’s historical significance and architectural grandeur. The increased connectivity will undoubtedly enhance travel options and foster greater ties between Cologne and the United Kingdom.
Riga, currently without direct flights from London Heathrow, will now offer connecting opportunities, potentially benefiting from BA’s codeshare with airBaltic. Belgrade has become a popular tourism destination and, despite some competition, British Airways believes it can compete effectively due to its strong connections and dominance in the UK.
The addition of the winter-only route to Turin will supplement existing flights from London Gatwick, providing more options for passengers connecting to Northern Italy.
British Airways is also extending its Ljubljana service into the winter, operating four times weekly, and promoting Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen to a year-round route with four weekly flights from Heathrow. London City Airport will see the resumption of flights to Milan Linate Airport and the year-round service to San Sebastian for the first time.
Overall, British Airways’ expansion and extension of routes demonstrate its commitment to meeting passenger demand and enhancing its network across Europe.
