British Airways flies direct to Rome

British Airways (BA) has launched direct flights from London to Rome - the fourth Italian city to be served by the airline.

The service will operate six days per week (not Saturdays) and will run all year round.

British Airways’ airport manager, Andrea Sperini, said: “I’m very proud to see the Italian capital becoming part of our network. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe and a treasury of art, history, traditions, politics and local food – almost anyone can find something to explore and enjoy."

A special bust of one of Rome’s most famous forefathers, Julius Caesar, was drafted in to greet customers on the first flight.

The bust was welcomed on board the Embraer 190 jet by British Airways’ inflight business manager and fellow Italian Marco Tagliaferri, one of 15 Italian cabin crew and flight crew who works onboard flights to and from London City.

Luke Hayhoe, British Airways’ general manager commercial and customer, said: “We are delighted to add another capital city to our schedule taking the number of routes we fly from London City to Europe up to 34. Rome is a destination that will be welcomed by both our leisure and business customers and alongside Florence, Milan and Venice will be our fourth route to Italy.”

One hand baggage only fares to Rome start from £70 ($90.8) and are available for booking online.

Richard Hill, chief commercial officer at London City Airport, said: “By adding another major European city to its network, British Airways is creating further choice for tourists and business travellers who want to use London’s most central airport as their bridge to the continent." - TradeArabia News Service