All Shipshape for New Croatian Route

British Airways is set to raise anchor and take off for the Croatian city of Split – in time for the annual Yacht Week adventure.

It’s the first time flights to Croatia have operated from London City Airport and British Airways will fly three flights a week through the peak summer months to September.

The launch of the new service on Friday, June 21, coincides with the start of the famous Yacht Week.  Croatia is one of only six locations worldwide that offers the floating festival, and it is also the longest, stretching out over 13 weeks.

The chartered yachts set sail throughout the summer from a marina near Split and head out for a week-long party cruise along the Dalmatian coast. Up to 50 boats can take part in each flotilla.

To get in the nautical mood British Airways cabin crew Viola Cupellaro (left) and Deborah Marques paid a visit to the Sunborn Yacht Hotel moored in Royal Victoria Dock, under the flightpath for London City Airport, to pose for a pre-departure photo.

British Airways also operates flights to Split from Heathrow Airport and has increased frequency there from five to seven flights a week this year.

Luke Hayhoe, British Airways’ general manager commercial and customer at London City Airport, said: “Croatia is a new destination for us and one which our customers have told us they want from London City. It is one of the fastest growing holiday destinations and we are delighted to offer new direct flights for the summer.”

Peter Downes, Aviation Director at London City Airport, said:  “The new seasonal service to Split in Croatia epitomises how our home carrier, British Airways, is broadening our offer of leisure routes from London City Airport. It’s the latest in a stellar selection of holiday getaway options that our passengers will love, as we prepare for our busiest summer yet.

“Using the city’s most central airport, sun-seeking Londoners can reach the idyllic Dalmatian coast conveniently and quickly, to discover its culture, food, stunning breaches, or as the gateway to Croatia’s islands and its famous Yacht Week.”

Return hand baggage only fares from London City to Split from £201, are available to book on www.ba.com/londoncity

Customers who choose to cut the cost of flights by using Avios part payment, would pay £161 plus 5,500 Avios. They are able to pick from a range of savings by destination and cabin. Customers making the most of this are still able to collect Avios and Tier Points on their bookings.*

More examples of these savings on the Split route can be seen below:

Avios required - 1,000 / Price - £191

Avios required - 2,500 / Price - £181

Avios required - 5,500 / Price - £161

Avios required - 10,000 / Price - £141

Avios required - 16,000 / Price - £111

Avios required - 29,000 / Price - £51

The airline is investing £6.5 billion pounds for its customers over the next five years. This includes the installation of the best quality WiFi and power in every seat, fitting 128 long-haul aircraft with new interiors and taking delivery of 72 new aircraft. The airline will also be introducing new Club World seat with direct aisle access next year.

Notes to editors:

• London City to Split timetable:

Flight No          Depart             Arrive              Days

BA7337`          2.55pm             6.30pm            Mon & Thurs

BA7337            2.10pm             5.45pm            Fri

• Split to London City timetable:

Flight No          Depart             Arrive              Days

BA7336           7.20pm             8.55pm             Mon & Thurs

BA7336           6.30pm             8.05pm             Fri