Today, British Airways began flying its new Airbus A380 aircraft between London Heathrow and Washington Dulles International Airport. This marks the first and only nonstop A380 service between the two nations’ capitals. The airline also officially unveiled its new, improved business and first class lounge for customers departing from Washington D.C.

The largest commercial airliner in the sky, British Airways’ A380 can accommodate up to 469 customers across two decks and four cabins.

With 97 Club World seats, British Airways’ A380 will offer business travelers more fully flat beds than any other aircraft departing from D.C.
The First cabin features 14 luxurious suites with 30 percent more personal space than the previous generation. Customers in First will be able to enjoy à la carte dining or try the A380 exclusive five course taster menu.
The popular World Traveller Plus (premium economy) cabin will have 55 seats and 303 seats will be available in World Traveller (economy).
Sean Doyle, British Airways’ Executive Vice President Americas, said “We’re excited that our British Airways and American Airlines customers in D.C. will be able to experience the newest addition to our fleet, alongside a brand new lounge. This is the culmination of a multi-billion pound investment in services that we know will further enhance the premium experience that our customers expect from British Airways.”

New Lounge for Business and First Customers

The upgraded and expansive 10,000 square foot lounge, which can accommodate 200 customers traveling in premium cabins, features intimate bar areas with complimentary wines and spirits, business facilities, fine dining, shower suites and a private VIP area. Reflecting the style of the Galleries flagship lounges at London Heathrow’s Terminal 5, the lounge is designed with areas to relax and unwind, or refresh and work.

The Club World pre-flight dining area offers views over the runway and allows guests to dine before flying, to maximize their sleep in the air. A private dining room is available for customers traveling in First.

British Airways’ A380 Service

British Airways will initially operate five A380 services a week from Washington Dulles. This will increase from the end of October to a daily A380 service, in conjunction with the daily BA292, operated by a Boeing 747 and the thrice weekly BA264, operated by a Boeing 777.

British Airways has ordered 12 A380s for delivery by 2016, as part of a £5bn investment in new aircraft, smarter cabins, elegant lounges, and new technologies to make life more comfortable in the air and on the ground.

Enhanced Entertainment

Customers can enjoy on-demand seat-back entertainment, with more than 1,600 hours of programing. Featuring 130 movies and 650 TV shows from around the world along with an extensive audio selection, there is something for every taste.

Customers can book online at ba.com or by calling 1-800 AIRWAYS.