LONDON, 26 August 2026: British Airways confirms a significant expansion to its network for the winter timetable, adding two new destinations: Melbourne in Australia (9 January 2027) and Colombo in Sri Lanka (23 October 2026).
The airline will also add more flights to Cape Town (South Africa), Haneda, Tokyo (Japan), Bridgetown (Barbados), Kingston (Jamaica) and San José (Costa Rica) for the winter timetable starting this October.
The new schedule reflects a 9% growth in British Airways’ long-haul route network, as the airline continues to invest in providing more choice for customers.
These planned new routes and frequency growth for winter 2026 are in addition to short-term capacity increases to destinations to meet customer demand, driven by the situation in the Middle East. British Airways has already added seven extra return services to Bangkok and Singapore and will continue to review its schedule and add additional flights to destinations as needed.
WINTER 2026
Melbourne, Australia
British Airways will commence flights to Melbourne, Australia, from 9 January 2027, launching in time for the Australian Open and the Melbourne Grand Prix. Flights will operate daily year-round from London Heathrow, via Kuala Lumpur, using a 214-seat 787-9.
Melbourne is the capital of the state of Victoria, known as the country’s cultural hub and world-renowned for its coffee scene. It’s also the gateway to southern Australia and its array of attractions, including Grampians National Park, the Great Ocean Road, and the High Country, with its breathtaking landscapes and famed vineyards.
Customers have a choice of four cabins — World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), Club World (business class) and First. Return fares start from UKP1,130 (including taxes and carrier fees).
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Launching on 23 October 2026, British Airways will fly three times per week from London Gatwick to Colombo, the gateway to Sri Lanka.
The route will operate for the winter season only, taking customers directly to the Indian Ocean island and home to picturesque beaches, scenic wildlife, vibrant culture and rich cuisine.
Customers have a choice of three cabins – World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy) and Club World (business class). Return fares start from UKP620 (including taxes and carrier fees).
(Source: British Airways)
