British Airways is launching a new route to Oakland, San Francisco Bay from London Gatwick. The new service starts from March 28, 2017.
It will be the airline’s first route from Gatwick to California, and its fifth service from London to California.
The airport provides easy access to San Francisco which is a 35 minute drive.
The route will be served by a B777-200ER aircraft operating four-days a week.
On Monday, Thursday and Saturday BA2279 will depart from Gatwick at 10:20 and arrive at Oakland International Airport at 13:15 while the BA2278 will leave Oakland at 15:05, arriving into Gatwick at 09:25 the next day. On Tuesday the flight times are 65 minutes later.
Colm Lacy, British Airways’ Head of commercial at Gatwick, said:
“We’re very excited to open up California to our customers in the Gatwick area and position British Airways as the number one European carrier to the Golden State. Boasting 260 days of sunshine, award-winning restaurants, some of the world’s best wine, a buzzing tech industry, great sports teams and world-renowned tourist attractions – there’s something for everyone.
“We are confident this route will be a big hit with British tourists, especially with each way launch fares from £189.”
British Airways is facing competition from Norwegian on US routes, and interestingly, is quoting its fares in an unusual way, as follows: £189 each way based on a return fare in World Traveller, £448 in World Traveller Plus and £998 in Club World.
