British Airways targets Gulf growth in 2011
15-Feb-2011 Despite 2010 being a particularly challenging year for the aviation industry, the UK's flagship carrier, British Airways has seen regional growth in premium traffic in 2011. This growth has prompted the launch of a Club World (business class) sale on fares from the Middle East to Europe and North America.
Traffic statistics issued by International Airline Group, the holding company for British Airways and Iberia showed premium traffic rose 7.4 per cent in January against last year.
"After witnessing increased growth both regionally and internationally in January we were keen to sustain demand for business class travel, whether for work or pleasure, by reducing fares from the UAE to Europe and the States, bringing customers comfort and luxury for a fraction of the usual price, said Paolo De Renzis, British Airways' Regional Commercial Manager, Middle East.
"Ultimately we are using these special fares to encourage discretionary travel and we will continue to offer highly competitive fares and value for money to maintain regional growth," added De Renzis.
"We remain committed to investing in market leading premium products and services and are in the process of introducing our new £100 million First cabin on Middle East routes. Later this month we also expect the refurbishment of our premium and executive club lounge in Dubai International airport to be complete
The discount fares will be available until February 28th, 2011 and are valid for travel up until 30th September 2011, in the airline's Club World business class cabin.
Return trips to Europe - including all taxes, fees and surcharges - are available. Customers can also book their hotel and car hire all in one package.
British Airways' new Club World - which offers customers a fully-flat business class bed, 25 per cent wider seat as well as greater comfort, privacy and storage space - is available on all aircraft servicing the Middle East region.
A full timetable of British Airways' GCC - London services is available online at ba.com - where the lowest fares are guaranteed - and customers can book, pay and check-in online for their flights.