BA confirms Chengdu route

British Airways will become the only carrier to offer non-stop flights between London and the Chinese city of Chengdu, when it launches thrice-weekly services from September next year.

The confirmation follows recent speculation regarding the new route on our forum, and discussion on possible new BA destinations here.

Flights are now on sale for the new service, which launches on September 22, 2013, and a special introductory offer starting from £508 return (reflecting the Chinese lucky number ‘8’) is available for travellers booking tickets before January 6.

Flight numbers will also feature the auspicious number, with BA89 departing Heathrow on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 1530, arriving into Chengdu at 0855 the following day, and BA88 departing Chengdu on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1055, landing into Heathrow at 1500.

The route will be served with a B777 aircraft configured for World Traveller, World Traveller Plus, Club World and First seating.

The only other direct, non-stop flights between Europe and Chendgu are operated by KLM from Amsterdam (with China Southern Airlines codesharing on the route).