British Airways has been expanding their trans-Atlantic flight offering very aggressively the past few years. They have launched flights to Fort Lauderdale, New Orleans and Oakland, among others. This expansion has been possible thanks to the new fuel economics brought on by aircraft like the 787. Another positive factor that has aided BA to launch new flights is their joint venture with American Airlines. This partnership has allowed them to coordinate costs and schedules with AA. It seems that their expansion ambitions are going further, with the airline likely announcing flights to Nashville next week.

Nashville, You Say?

Many people will ask why Nashville. At first I wondered too, but then I remembered American still has a considerable presence there. They used to operate a hub there during the 90s, and they host and Admiral’s Club at the aiport to this day. Even, American was the last provider of trans-Atlantic flights from Nashville (BNA). They had a flight to London during the years of the hub, and now the JV with BA is making it possible for it to return.

Upon further research, I found that Nashville has a bustling economy. Not only do they have the Country Music Hall of Fame, they host various universities, banks and other firms. The city’s economy has been well ranked for economic growth, and the tourism industry is growing quite rapidly. This make me think that the flight to BNA will be economically feasible for BA.

What to Expect?

Although there hasn’t been an official announcement yet, various reputable sources have already begun to announce the route. I believe British Airways will launch the route with the 787-8. This aircraft has Club World, World Traveller Plus and World Traveller cabin classes. The aircraft is a great ride across the Atlantic, and I much prefer the cabin to those of the 777 or the 767. British Airways will codeshare with American on the route, as well as provide connecting access to Europe and beyond from London Heathrow. If award seats are available on this route, it is important to remember the hefty taxes and surcharges associated with flying British Airways and through London. Nonetheless, this offers citizens of Nashville and the surrounding area a new connection to the world.

Landing Thoughts:

The routes that the 787 and A350 have made possible are opening new bridges across cities, countries and continents. I am very excited for this flight, given that it is breathing new international life to an airport that has been growing rapidly over the past years. British Airways is currently improving their business class soft product, and will launch a new business class seat when they launch their A350. These improvements make the journey all the better. I hope to see British Airways continue to launch flights, and hopefully restart flights to my native San Juan with their 787!

 

What do you think? Is British Airways doing a good business decision in flying to Nashville? Are you excited to see BA fly to Nashville? Let us know!

 

If you want to stay up to date with the latest airline news follow me on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn!

Also follow Travel Update and Boarding Area on Twitter!

 

H/T: The Wandering Aramean, a fellow BoardingArea blogger.

 

All images from Wikipedia.