On 30 January 2025, the Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) was delighted to arrange a cross-party visit to British Airways at their Waterside Headquarters in Harmondsworth, Greater London. The visit was attended by Graeme Downie MP, Gordon McKee MP, Ruth Cadbury MP, Chris Webb MP, Lord Hain, Lord Ranger of Northwood, Baroness Bloomfield of Hinton Waldrist and Lord Hunt of Wirral.

British Airways is one of the world’s leading airlines, operating a global network of over 800 flights daily across more than 170 destinations. As part of a major £7bn transformation over three years, the company is investing in new systems, technology, and equipment to enhance operational efficiency and ensure a consistent, safe, and punctual service. The visit provided an exclusive insight into the extensive planning and logistical coordination that underpin this operation.

The visit began with an introduction from British Airways’ Chief Operating Officer René de Groot, providing an overview of the airline’s complex flight planning process. Parliamentarians gained a behind-the-scenes look at the Integrated Operations Control Centre, where teams coordinate to maintain seamless service across the airline’s vast network. The discussion covered key industry challenges, including airspace congestion and the evolving regulatory landscape.

Following this, the delegation travelled to British Airways’ Flight Training Centre, where they had the unique opportunity to experience the airline’s state-of-the-art flight simulators. This hands-on session demonstrated the rigorous training pilots undergo to ensure safety and operational excellence. Parliamentarians also met with British Airways’ apprentices and cadets from the Speedbird Pilot Academy, learning about the company’s commitment to nurturing future talent. The Academy, launched as part of British Airways’ drive to address industry skills shortages, fully funds pilot training to create new career pathways for aspiring aviators.

The IPT would like to express its gratitude to British Airways for hosting this visit. The experience offered invaluable insight into the role British Airways plays in the UK’s aviation sector, demonstrating the airline’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and workforce development.