British Airways launches new daily San Diego flight

As the only airline flying directly from San Diego to Europe, the new route offers greater access for Southern Californians conducting international business, as well as serving as a popular leisure destination for European holidaymakers.

Simon Talling-Smith, British Airways' executive vice president Americas, said: "We are delighted to link these two great cities together with our renowned brand of British Airways service. London and San Diego are important destinations for business and leisure travel so it is really great news that our joint-business with American Airlines and Iberia has allowed us to launch this important route which links San Diego directly to Europe."

Mayor Jerry Sanders, City of San Diego said: "The start of this service marks a new, streamlined way for the citizens of San Diego to reach the great city of London and further European points beyond. We're grateful for this direct link and for the many economic benefits it will bring to our region."

The new daily service, BA 272, departs San Diego at 8:05 p.m. and arrives at London Heathrow Terminal 5 at 2:25 p.m. the next afternoon. The return flight, BA 273, departs Heathrow at 3:05 p.m. local time and arrives in San Diego at 6:15 p.m. The flights are operated by a three-class Boeing 777 aircraft offering 48 Club World seats, 24 World Traveller Plus seats and 203 World Traveller seats for a total capacity of 275 passengers.

Robert H. Gleason, Chair, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority added: "Enhancing international air service at San Diego International Airport is a top commitment for the Airport Authority, and we're pleased to see this new nonstop flight to London. The greatest result will be the economic benefit for the region from international visitors who tend to spend more and stay longer."

Derek DeCross, American's Vice President -- Sales said: "American Airlines congratulates fellow oneworld(R) Alliance member British Airways on bringing nonstop trans-Atlantic service from San Diego to London. As a joint business route, San Diego customers will also be able to earn and redeem frequent flyer miles and fly from San Diego to London and continental Europe more easily. Our joint business has enabled us to bring more choices and greater convenience to Southern California travellers through a series of recent moves -- American's launch of 10 new routes out of Los Angeles, Iberia's new Los Angeles to Madrid route, and now British Airways route from San Diego to London. This growth complements existing routes and strengthens oneworld's leadership position in Southern California."