28 March 2008

BA gives more OpenSkies details

British Airways is to operate a three-class service on its new OpenSkies transatlantic offshoot between the Continent and the US.

The carrier will run Boeing 757s in an 82-seat configuration split into three classes.

'Biz' class will have 24 seats that convert into six foot flat beds, 'Prem+' class will have 28 premium seats with a 52-inch seat pitch - claimed to offer more legroom than rival premium economy services - and economy will have 30 leather seats.

Personal entertainment units will feature more than 50 hours of programmes.

Flights between Paris and New York are subject to regulatory approval and the resolution of a dispute with pilots over the employment terms offered by the start-up.

No date for the first service this summer has yet been given, although BA says it intends to add a second 757 "later in 2008".

OpenSkies will have a fleet of six aircraft by the end of 2009. Fares have yet to be announced.

The carrier's managing director Dale Moss said: "OpenSkies combines the proven track expertise of one of the world's biggest airlines with the passion and commitment of a start-up.

"We're out to do things differently and have total focus on creating the best customer experience on our routes.

"We want to deliver an unforgettable premium flying experience and an atmosphere focussed on personalisation and comfort."

One relief, critics will say, is that the new airline will not have to operate from Heathrow Terminal 5.

by Phil Davies