An introduction to OpenSkies

A change in the EU-US Open Skies Agreement in 2008 gave British Airways the perfect opportunity to start this subsidiary of its service, as well as providing inspiration for the airline's name OpenSkies. This agreement change came at a good time for British Airways. It had long wanted to reduce its dependency on slots at Heathrow Airport for linking continental Europe and the United States. This also provided a more efficient route and service for its European passengers.

Originally the airline focused on two routes EWR-ORY (Newark to Paris Orly) and JFK-AMST (John F Kennedy, New York to Schiphol Amsterdam) but soon dropped the Amsterdam route and now operates daily flights from Newark and John F Kennedy Airports to Paris Orly. There had been some talk of opening up the route to other European cities but this hasn't come to fruition yet. The airline is headquartered at Rungis near Paris and currently operates a fleet of 3 Boeing 757-200 and 1 Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. The airline became a member of the Oneworld Alliance in 2012 and in 2013 it announced a codeshare agreement with American Airlines on the Newark to Paris route.

Flying with OpenSkies

Although the aircraft does have Economy seats its main focus is on catering for Business Class travellers who appreciate the combination of good value ticketing and a comfortable flight. Eco seats recline slightly and have comfortable head rests and back cushions while Prem Plus cabins offer plenty of personal space and legroom with up to 28 seats arranged in pairs. The Biz Bed service offers 24 passengers flat beds, Egyptian linen and a dedicated cabin crew. All classes offer complimentary food and drink. For more travel class information visit [https://www.britishairways.com/en-gb/information/travel-classes].

OpenSkies is part of the Oneworld Alliance Frequent Flyer Programme which includes advantages such as access to premium lounges and smooth transfers as well as points and tier status towards future flights.

Practical Information

With OpenSkies you can check-in from 24 hours to one hour before your flight regardless of whether you are travelling with cabin baggage or just hand luggage. Once checked-in an electronic ticket confirms your reservation. Personal seat choices can be made at check-in.

Airport desks open three hours before departure and close 50 minutes before take-off. If you are travelling with luggage and have already checked-in online bag drops are provided at the airport.

Hand baggage allowance is one piece plus one handbag or laptop, including any airport purchases:

• Maximum size 56 x 45 x 25 cm (22 x 18 x 10 in)

• Maximum weight 23 kg (51 lbs)

The checked baggage allowance depends on the travel class and varies from two to three bags each with a maximum weight of 23 kg (51 lbs). The maximum dimensions of checked bags are 90 x 75 x 43cm (35.5 x 29.5 x 16 in).

If you are a member of the Frequent Flyer programme you might be entitled to a greater allowance.