British Airways Airline Guide

British Airways is the UK's national carrier and offers scheduled flights from airports across the UK to over 600 destinations around the world. British Airways (BA) calls London Heathrow and London Gatwick airports home, and recently merged with Iberia to create Europe's third largest scheduled airline.

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Check-in

Check-in times and procedures vary between airports so it pays to check the details for your departure point. The stress-free way is to check in online, from 24 hours before your departure, and then use the Bag Drop at the airport. You can also check in on your internet-enabled mobile phone, at self-service kiosks in the airport or in the traditional way at the check-in counter. Online check-in closes one hour before departure and check-in desks usually close 45 minutes beforehand.

Luggage restrictions and security

Hand luggage: each passenger can take on one item with maximum dimensions of 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (22'' x 17.5'' x 9.85''), weighing no more than 23kg; plus one laptop or handbag. You're also allowed one extra bag if you're travelling with an infant.

Checked-in luggage: You get a free baggage allowance on all BA flights. Generally you will be allowed one bag weighing up to 23kg (51lb), but some fare types allow up to three bags free of charge. The maximum dimensions for luggage are 90cm x 75cm x 43cm (35.5'' x 29.5'' x 16''). There may be a charge for bags weighing more than 23kg. Some frequent flyer members will receive a greater baggage allowance.

Families, elderly and disabled

British Airways provides Skyflyer activity packs and special meals for children, and the in-flight entertainment on long-haul flights includes a dedicated children's channel. Children have the same baggage allowance as adults. Children between five and 12 can fly solo with Skyflyer Solo; this service must be pre-booked and incurs a fee. When you travel with an infant (under two years old) you can reserve seats for your whole party free of charge when booking. Seats and carrycots are available for infants.

If you have a disability and require assistance, let BA know when you make your booking. You can carry an unlimited number of mobility aids (e.g. wheelchairs) as long as they are for personal use. Wheelchairs will be carried irrespective of weight, but do inform BA at the time of booking if your wheelchair weighs more than 32kg (70lb). Long-haul flights have disabled toilets and on-board wheelchairs. Certified assistance dogs are allowed on the flight.

Selecting a seat

All BA passengers may reserve a seat free of charge when checking in online (from 24 hours before departure). You may select a seat at the time of booking if you are travelling with an infant; if you are in First class; if you are a Gold and Silver Executive Club member or a oneworld Emerald and Sapphire equivalent; if you hold certain flexible tickets; if you have a disability, or in special circumstances. You may reserve a seat three days in advance if you are travelling with children aged two - 11; if you are a child travelling alone; or if you are travelling in a large group. Everyone else may select a seat 24 hours in advance. An Economy seat pitch is 31''. It is possible to reserve extra-legroom seats in advance at an additional cost.

In-flight food and entertainment

One of the benefits of a British Airways flight is the complimentary menu of classic and contemporary British cuisine, created by leading chefs. Breakfast with coffee or tea, or drinks and snacks, are offered on all European flights, while you'll be given a three-course meal and bar service on long-haul flights. On board you'll be able to watch a range of films and television programmes, listen to CDs along with radio channels created just for BA, check out programmes from the BBC archives and read the High Life magazine.

Pets, sports gear and musical instruments

Pets need to be booked with British Airways World Cargo and they will travel in the hold, while guide dogs can travel in the main cabin. Sports gear can be taken on as standard checked-in luggage, and a charge will apply if this takes you over your free luggage allowance. You can save money by booking the extra baggage online in advance. Musical instruments that fit within the hand luggage dimensions and weight limit can be taken on as hand luggage; otherwise they must be carried as checked baggage. It may be possible to book an extra seat for your instrument, but you must book this through your nearest BA office as it can't be done online.

Alliances and air miles

British Airways is a member of the oneworld alliance with 11 other airlines including American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines and Qantas. Avios miles can be accumulated through the British Airways Executive Club.

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Contact

Call 0844 493 0787 (from the UK) or visit www.britishairways.com.