Refueling at Shannon Saves Time for British Airways Business Class Only Customers

Travelers using British Airways' (BA) business-class only flights from London City Airport to New York will have more time on their hands. While westbound flights refuel at Shannon Airport in Ireland (eastbound flights will be nonstop), customers will be able to complete the check in process for U.S arrivals and, therefore, bypass the process when landing in New York. The check-in process at Shannon means travelers can arrive to London City Airport up to 15 minutes before departure.

“Many city workers will be able to get from desk to aircraft in as little as 30 minutes," said Robert Boyle, British Airways' commercial director. "This combined with Shannon airport’s ability to complete USA arrival checks during the planned refuelling stop will ensure customers can make the most of their time and travel desk to desk in the quickest time possible."

The new service will launch in fall of 2009 and will be operated by Airbus 318 aircraft, the largest aircraft that can depart from and arrive at London City.