British Airways is launching cheap, no-frills fares for transatlantic flights in April

Great news for those who regularly fly with British Airways and are looking for a bargain, as the airline has announced that it will be launching low-cost fares for transatlantic flights from April. The new long-haul basic economy fare will be offered on selected transatlantic routes with BA’s joint business partners, American Airlines, Iberia and Finnair.

The new no-frills offer will include complimentary headphones, blankets and in-flight World Traveller meal choices. You’ll pay extra for stowed luggage however, but can still carry on one cabin bag and a small handbag or laptop bag. There will also be a charge for seat reservations, unless you’re a bronze, silver and gold executive club member, in which case, you’ll be able to choose a seat at the time of booking.

British Airways is the largest airline in the United Kingdom based on fleet size, or the second-largest behind easyJet, when measured by passengers carried. It was founded in 1974 and its main hub is at London’s Heathrow Airport. It is believed that the new fares are being introduced by British Airways in an attempt to fight off recent competition from low-cost airlines introducing long-haul routes.

The airline made the announcement in communications to the travel trade, and said that while prices haven’t been announced yet, they will be revealed in due course when the fares go live in BA’s booking systems. It said that the new fare will give customers a lower price point and more choice, and they will include the new and improved in-flight meals now being served in its World Traveller cabins.