An update for those travelling back to the UK maps out the necessary steps; British Airways becomes one of the world’s first airlines to be awarded a Covid-19 safety rating with Skytrax; a new seat is unveiled in First, plus we tell Tesco shoppers why it’s time to convert Clubcard points into Avios

British Airways awarded Covid-19 safety rating
It has been announced that British Airways has been given a 4-star Covid-19 safety rating by the international air transport rating agency Skytrax – making it one of the first airlines in the world to be awarded the certification. The rating comes off the back of a detailed investigation into the airline’s safety and hygiene measures since the pandemic began. Amongst others, Skytrax’s rating recognises sanitary airport processing (noting the use of contactless technologies), cleanliness of the lounges, social distancing measures, adapted food and beverage delivery systems, cabin presentation and cleanliness, plus the effectiveness of mass disinfectant treatments.

To find out how to enjoy safe travel with British Airways, click 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 covering on the flight, in the airport and on public transport in the UK (see story below).

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.

Face masks: an important update
If you’re travelling with British Airways, you’re required to wear a face mask throughout your journey to ensure the wellbeing of your fellow travellers and British Airways colleagues. As a guide, one face mask should last up to four hours, so make sure you bring enough for the duration of your trip. Here’s what else you need to know:

• If you meet the UK government’s exemption requirements you may be asked by British Airways colleagues about your exemption and could be asked to present supporting documentation.

• You will be asked to remove your face mask for any passport checks, but you’ll be advised when to do so by British Airways colleagues.

• Once on board, you may remove your face mask for a reasonable time so that you can eat or drink. However, when you’re not consuming food or drink, your face mask must cover your nose and mouth.

• You should ensure that you check individual entry requirements and rules on face coverings at your arrival destination, as this may vary by country.

A room with a view
Introducing your very own luxury suite. Executive Club Members travelling in First will soon discover a brand-new suite (pictured above and top of page) aboard some of the newest Boeing 777-300ERs. Helping to increase a sense of personal privacy within the cabin, the suite will feature new doors that slide into place and a three-point seat belt, as well as the usual First treats such as your Temperley London amenity kit, free Wi-Fi and an à la carte menu of safely pre-packaged hot and cold food options. To find out more, click here

Every little helps: converting your Clubcard vouchers to Avios
The British Airways partnership with Tesco Clubcard is coming to an end. That means, after 18 January 2021, Executive Club Members will no longer be able to convert Clubcard points into Avios. November’s statement will be the last automatic transfer for those who are already opted in, after which time you’ll have to manually transfer the vouchers into Avios until the partnership ends. With 600 Avios available for every £2.50 Clubcard voucher you convert, there’s still time to make the most of vouchers and save up for your next Reward Flight or cabin upgrade.   

Read the Tesco Clubcard FAQs

Collect Avios on Airbnb Experiences
Where super homes and ‘Superhosts’ collide, Airbnb is known for giving guests a place to stay, but did you know it specialises in one-of-a-kind experiences, too? Airbnb Experiences are designed and hosted by locals, going far beyond your typical tour to bring the world to you in a more intimate and authentic way.

Besides giving guests the chance to connect virtually, Airbnb Experiences also offers Avios. This means Executive Club Members booking calligraphy lessons, gnocchi-making masterclasses, workshops with award-winning authors or any other of the platform’s myriad experiences, will receive three Avios per £1 in the process. To connect virtually with your fellow travellers and collect Avios via Airbnb, click here

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This article has been tagged BA, Travel Tips