British Airways History

British Airways is the largest airline in the United Kingdom. Formed by two British government-owned international airlines, the carrier has emerged with one of the most profitable and far-reaching networks from its hub in London-Hethrow.

Pre-British Airways

By the 1970s, the United Kingdom's air service primarily consisted of two government-owned airlines. British Overseas Airways Corp. (BOAC) operated long-haul international routes. British European Airways absorbed independent U.K. airlines that flew short-haul European routes in the 1950s.

Formation of British Airways

British Airways was formed in 1972 when BOAC and BEA's management came under the new governmental organization, the British Airways Board. The airlines merged operations and rebranded under British Airways in 1974.

"The World's Favorite Airline"

After the merger, the airline introduced the supersonic jet Concorde in 1976, winning prestige and trans-Atlantic business customers. The airline trimmed its route structure and adopted the slogan, "The World's Favorite Airline."

Privatization and Acquisitions

In 1987, the British government floated British Airlines on the London Stock Exchange. The airline moved to acquire competitors such as British Caledonian in 1987 and Dan-Air in 1992.

Recent History

During the late 1990s, British Airlines moved to make itself competitive by introducing the "Oneworld" alliance. The airline remained profitable during the new millennium, branding itself as a major full-service carrier.

References

• British Airways History
• British Airways History and Heritage
• Early History

Resources

• British Airways