Virtual Christmas markets take over the British Airways Avios eStore, COVID-19 testing is made easy over on ba.com, plus there’s 100,000 Avios up for grabs

Win 100,000 Avios this Christmas
Gift giving is undoubtedly one of the joys of Christmas and, this year, your generosity towards friends and loved ones could result in a special treat for you. Executive Club Members who make a purchase of more than £25 via the eStore at any time in December will automatically qualify for a chance to win 100,000 Avios. That’s a lot of Avios. Enough, in fact, for 12 economy return flights to Europe, or a return Club World flight to Abu Dhabi, Bermuda, Montreal, Boston or New York. So, when January comes around and the festivities have finished, you’ll be able to start planning a 2021 treat for yourself, on the house.

Prize draw entries are capped at 25 per member between 1 to 31 December 2020. Taxes and fees on redemption flights apply. For terms and conditions, click here.

Find your COVID-19 test on ba.com
If you need a COVID-19 test for an upcoming flight departing from the UK, British Airways has brought together a number of test options that are available both at home, in-clinic and at the airport – all offering reduced prices for British Airways customers. To learn more about testing, click here. Or, to hear more about British Airways’ approach to testing, check out our interview with chief commercial officer Andrew Brem here

The results are in...
British Airways has claimed top spot in the category for Best Short-Haul Airline in The Times and Sunday Times Travel Awards 2020. More than 330,000 votes were cast by readers looking to celebrate the very best of the industry, which has shown resilience and ingenuity in the face of impossible challenges. We couldn’t be more pleased with the result, and hope to celebrate with you on board as soon as we can.  

Double baggage allowance for India and Pakistan
Passengers flying between the UK and all British Airways’ India and Pakistan gateways in World Traveller will benefit from a doubling of their checked baggage allowance. Travellers who booked from 6 November 2020 onwards will be able check two 23kg items into the hold and will be able to take two carry-on bags on board. The new allowance is also valid on BA CityFlyer domestic connections to India and Pakistan via London. 

Christmas markets come to you
Few people are immune to the mulled-wine-scented, tinselly allure of Christmas markets, so there’s no doubt we’ll be missing them this year. Luckily, you can still enjoy a taste of their unique retail spirit thanks to the British Airways Avios eStore, which has launched its very own virtual Christmas market. While browsing some of the special online deals available (ASOS, Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges and M&S are offering triple Avios this December), the British Airways choir – made up of BA staff past and present – will serenade your spending with Christmas tunes new and old, ensuring you finish your shopping spree on a high.

Hygiene first 
British Airways has been awarded a coveted, four-star COVID-19 safety rating by international air transport agency Skytrax, making it one of the first airlines to be granted the esteemed accolade.

Certification involves a thorough investigation into our safety and hygiene measures since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak. It also recognises sanitary airport processing such as contactless technologies, lounge cleanliness, social distancing measures, adapted food and beverage delivery systems and cabin cleanliness, as well as the effectiveness of mass disinfectant treatments.

To find out how to enjoy safe travel with British Airways, click here

Get the First experience at home 
British Airways and whatabuy.co.uk teamed up to give customers and Executive Club Members the opportunity to purchase crockery and soft products exclusively used in the premium cabins – perfect for those hoping to recreate the flying experience from the comfort of home. If you’ve recently purchased First products from whatabuy.co.uk, we here at The Club would love to see: show us your spoils here. 

Essential information on travelling back to the UK
The United Kingdom is taking important steps to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Any Executive Club Members currently abroad or travelling after the national lockdown should consider the follow steps upon their return:

1) Everyone entering the UK must complete an online passenger locator form before arrival in the United Kingdom.

2) Those coming to the UK may be required to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival. Check the exempt countries list immediately before you travel as this list can change at short notice.

3) It is a legal requirement that every passenger wears a face mask on the flight, in the airport and on public transport in the UK.

Failure to comply with the above measures is a criminal offence that will result in fines. Click here for detailed public health advice and requirements for entering the UK.

A room with a view
If you’re planning a trip for the future, consider flying in First on some of our newest Boeing 777-300ERs, which bring with them a new level of luxury. First customers will enjoy a new pod, enclosed with sliding doors for privacy and a three-point seat belt. Get settled in your private haven and then take advantage of First’s other luxuries, including an à la carte menu of safely pre-packaged options with a range of hot and cold items, free Wi-Fi and a Temperley London amenity kit.

Galleries South, First lounge and First Wing reopen at Heathrow, Terminal 5
We are happy to announce that British Airways has reopened its Galleries South, First lounges and First Wing at Heathrow Terminal 5, which include the new Your Menu service. Please visit the FAQs page for more information. 

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This article has been tagged BA, Travel Tips