British Airways' countdown to new aircraft begins

Keith Williams, chief executive, said: “The delivery of these exciting aircraft opens a new chapter in British Airways’ history. We are proud to be leading the way in Europe in operating both these aircraft types.

“Over the next 12 months, we will take delivery of new long-haul aircraft at an average rate of one every two weeks.

“These deliveries form the centrepiece of the £5bn investment British Airways is making in new aircraft, smarter cabins, superb lounges and new technologies to make travel more comfortable in the air and on the ground.

“Both aircraft types make major environmental advances and will contribute toward our ambitious targets for noise and carbon reduction.”

Following their arrival, both aircraft types will begin a complex ‘entry into service’ programme, which will see pilot and cabin crew training taking place at Manston Airport in Kent, customer service trials at Heathrow and short-haul flying for both aircraft, including flights within the UK.

Seats on the A380 are currently on sale for travel from October 15 to Los Angeles and from November 15 to Hong Kong. However the airline is advising enthusiasts eager to be on the very first long-haul services to hold off booking as the dates of the inaugural services are yet to be announced.

The first destinations for the 787s, and the date tickets go on sale, will be unveiled shortly.