News: British Airways start flights to Shanghai

The airline’s chairman, Martin Broughton, hosted the guests including political and business leaders as well as the media onboard the inaugural flight.

The Boeing 777 aircraft was met at Shanghai’s Pudong airport by British Airways’ chief executive Rod Eddington, HM Ambassador to China, Sir Christopher Hum and the deputy director of East China’s civil aviation authority, Zhou Zhen Kia. Passengers were treated to a traditional lion dance at the airport, and Martin Broughton was invited to paint the lion’s eyes, a Chinese symbol of good luck.

Martin Broughton said:

"I’m delighted that we have touched down in this vibrant and fast growing city which is the economic powerhouse of China. We have wanted to fly to Shanghai for many years and now we are here, we intend to make our mark. I’ve been a regular visitor to Shanghai during the last decade and know just how the economy is booming. We want to be part of its growth. We look forward to welcoming existing customers on to our new route and introducing new customers to British Airways’ products and services."

British Airways now offers five weekly flights to Shanghai from London Heathrow, offering competition to Virgin Atlantic's established services, as well as to local carrier China Eastern Airlines.