To commemorate the tenth anniversary of its Austin to London Heathrow flights, British Airways is introducing a unique culinary celebration. Beginning March 3, 2024, the airline has partnered with the famous Franklin Barbecue of Austin to offer its Club World customers flying from Austin to London a taste of Texas with an exclusive BA-B-Q sauce, created to mark this significant milestone.
Throughout the month of March, passengers will also enjoy a Texas-inspired barbecue menu on board. This initiative aims to pay tribute to Austin’s acclaimed barbecue culture by bringing its rich and savory flavors up in the air.
“We’re excited to celebrate a decade of connecting Austin and London,” stated Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer. “At British Airways we’re committed to providing an exceptional and original experience for our customers and we’re always looking for new ways to do that. Bringing the flavors of Austin to the skies with this special menu is one way of us celebrating this remarkable city and expressing gratitude for the support we’ve received over the past 10 years. And we can’t wait for customers to enjoy our limited edition bottles of Franklin Barbecue’s Original BBQ sauce.”
The menu has been crafted by British Airways’ Executive Chef Mark Brega, who was inspired by a visit to Austin and pitmaster Aaron Franklin’s culinary expertise. “Franklin Barbecue is a legendary establishment in Austin,” Brega noted. “Known for its long lines and mouthwatering brisket, it has earned a reputation as one of the best barbecue joints in the world.”
Aaron Franklin himself expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. “We had such a good time hosting Mark and the team from British Airways,” he said. “It’s an honor to help represent Austin as we celebrate ten years of a straight-shot between these two great cities, and all kinds of fun to share this special sauce with British Airways travelers!”
Additionally, special dishes featuring lightly smoked and succulent beef brisket, among others, will be available to Club World and World Traveller Plus customers. A smoky chicken barbecue dish will also be offered to World Traveller customers, ensuring a taste of Texas barbecue culture is experienced by all on board.
British Airways, which offers direct flights to London from 26 cities in the US, initially started its service to Austin on March 3, 2014. The city is served daily by the airline’s A350 aircraft, equipped with the Club Suite business class cabin. The Austin route has become a popular choice among both business and leisure travelers, enhancing the airline’s offerings and celebrating the unique cultural connection between Austin and London.