British Airways Increases Number of Flights to Tampa

CRAWLEY, England, Nov. 19, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- British Airways will increase its frequency of flights to Tampa, starting in March 2011. The airline will serve this popular destination with one flight per day.

Tampa is the perfect gateway for holidays in Florida, giving customers the chance to experience a wide range of destination and breaks, all easily reached from the convenience of one airport. From beaches and parks to the lively city centre and cultural centres, there is something for everyone.

Customers can explore the Gulf Coast or twin their break with a family holiday in Orlando. The modern Sandpearl Resort in Clearwater offers a stylish atmosphere coupled with a white sandy beach or head to the intimate Sandpiper hotel, a haven for relaxation direct on the beach. Effortless elegance can be found at the The Ritz Carlton Sarasota with its private beach and award-winning dining. Or, treat the family to luxury at the beautiful Longboat Key Club and Resort.

Tampa has a distinct Caribbean influence due to the large influx of immigrants over the years. Immerse in the multicultural heritage in Ybor City, home of the Tampa Latin Quarter and the centre of the Cuban cigar boom in the early 20th century. Or, take the family to Busch Gardens, north of Tampa. Spring 2011, just in time for British Airways increased flights to Tampa, sees the opening of a sensational new high speed mega attraction, Cheetah Hunt which pairs man-made thrills through a new launch coaster with nature's fastest land animal the Cheetah.

Simon Parry, head of key accounts and sales operations for UK & Ireland at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment said: "At SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment we are very excited about the announcement of Cheetah Hunt and Cheetah Run at Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay. The park already offers visitors a very unique experience through up-close animal encounters, amazing shows and world class roller coasters. Cheetah Hunt will add to and enhance this still further. With the direct flights serving both Orlando and Tampa, British Airways Holidays are a very important partner to us and we will be working very closely with them over the coming months to the opening of the attraction next Spring."

There is also a new reef opening at Discovery Cove in Orlando, which is part of the SeaWorld group. It will allow customers to snorkel with fish on top of the already popular option of swimming with dolphins at the park. British Airways offers a wide variety of hotels in Orlando to suit families and thrill seekers alike.

Flights and holidays in Tampa are available on the ba.com. Holiday packages for flights with American Airlines are also now available on ba.com and give customers even greater choice to explore Florida with options including Fort Lauderdale on Florida's Gold Coast.

About British Airways:

British Airways plc offers a wide range of worldwide destinations - including holidays in Florida, hotels, flights, car rental and experiences. Customers can save time and money with ba.com when booking ATOL protected holiday packages. Passengers are offered added peace of mind to their holiday plans and the security of travelling with British Airways. British Airways plc constantly seeks to exceed customers' expectations, both in terms of the value for money and quality of the service provided.

SOURCE British Airways