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This month British Airways marks 40 years of connecting Tampa and London
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To celebrate, the airline is giving one lucky pair the chance to win round-trip Club World (business class) tickets from Tampa to London Gatwick*
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Customers have been treated to celebrations at Tampa International Airport, with live music, commemorative luggage tags and a traditional British tea experience
Tampa, April 3, 2025 – This month, British Airways proudly celebrates 40 years of flights between Tampa and London. The airline has connected travelers to the UK and beyond since April 2, 1985.
To commemorate the anniversary, Tampa International Airport hosted a variety of events for customers, including complimentary tea, scones, cake and decorations, all set to the tune of a live British-themed band. Departing customers on flight BA2166 also received a limited-edition luggage tag.
To continue the celebrations, British Airways is offering an exclusive ticket giveaway. Until Thursday April 10, followers of Tampa International Airport’s social media accounts can enter for a chance to win a pair of round-trip British Airways Club World (business class) tickets from Tampa to London Gatwick.
British Airways’ Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, Neil Chernoff, said: “Celebrating 40 years of connecting Tampa and London is an exciting milestone for British Airways. Over the past four decades, we've had the privilege of linking two vibrant cities, enabling business, leisure and cultural ties. We look forward to continuing to serve our friends on Florida’s Gulf Coast by providing a daily direct route to London.”
“For 40 years, British Airways has been a loyal and trusted partner in connecting the Tampa Bay region to London and the world,” TPA CEO Joe Lopano said. “Reaching this significant milestone together is a testament to this airline’s success, as well as our strong relationship and the demand for international travel from TPA. We look forward to celebrating with British Airways and continuing this transatlantic route for many years to come.”
On March 30, 1985, British Airways made a grand entrance in Tampa with a special extension of the Concorde flight to Miami. The inaugural service then officially launched on April 2, 1985, with five flights per week.
This summer, British Airways will fly daily between Tampa – London Gatwick, operated by its Boeing 777 aircraft. Customers flying from Tampa can enjoy the airline’s’ premium cabin options, curated dining experiences, and British Original service.
And for those looking to book their next trip, British Airways is currently on sale. The sale runs until Tuesday, April 15, offering discounted flights and vacations to the UK and Europe from across British Airways’ 26 US destinations**. For more information and to book, visit ba.com/sale.
ENDS
*Contest is open to legal residents of Florida, excluding current employees of the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority and their immediate family members. Contestants must be at least 18 years of age at time of contest entry.
