British Airways expands flights from Austin amid market changes

Currently, British Airways operates an Airbus A350-1000 on the Austin-London route. With the addition of a second daily flight (except Sunday), this will change to a Boeing 777-200ER and a Boeing 787-10. The introduction of these aircraft may mark the return of first-class service on this route, although first-class inventory has not yet been loaded into flight schedules.

However, there are concerns regarding business class accommodations. While Heathrow-based Boeing 777-200s are equipped with Club Suite business class seats, some Gatwick-based Boeing 777-200s have been operating without these upgraded seats out of Heathrow. Passengers booking business class might end up with eight-abreast seating configurations instead.

Virgin Atlantic's exit from the Austin-London route opens up more opportunities for British Airways during peak season starting at the end of March. Unlike Virgin Atlantic, which had limited connectivity on both sides of the Atlantic due to slot constraints at Heathrow and predominantly transatlantic routes, British Airways offers more extensive connections.

Given that American Airlines typically bases its transatlantic plans at its own hubs rather than secondary cities like Austin, it makes sense for British Airways to operate this route under their joint venture agreement.

— Ishrion Aviation (@IshrionA) September 12, 2024