British Airways and American Express Launch Avios-Only Flight to New York
The special one-off flight celebrates 25 years of partnership between the two companies, offering a no-cash payment option for cardmembers.
British Airways and American Express are introducing a unique Avios-only flight from London Heathrow to New York JFK to commemorate their 25-year partnership. This exclusive, one-off journey is scheduled to depart on October 15, 2026, and return on October 18, 2026.
The flight offers exclusive discounts across all cabin classes, and crucially, requires no cash payment for eligible British Airways American Express Cardmembers. Every seat on this special flight will be bookable using Avios points.
To mark the milestone anniversary, return tickets will start at 25,000 Avios for the World Traveller cabin, with no additional cash required. Cardmembers can register their interest until June 24, 2026, with booking instructions to follow for reservations opening on July 15, 2026.
Beyond the flight itself, passengers can anticipate a unique onboard experience featuring specially curated food and drink. Additionally, cardmembers will receive an invitation to a private event at One Vanderbilt in Manhattan, offering panoramic views of the city skyline. First-class travelers will also benefit from a complimentary BLADE helicopter transfer between JFK and Manhattan.
Fares for the anniversary flight are structured as follows: World Traveller at 25,000 Avios (£0 cash), World Traveller Plus at 50,000 Avios (£0 cash), Club World at 100,000 Avios (£0 cash), and First at 160,000 Avios (£0 cash).
Caroline Bouvet, vice president of UK products at American Express, highlighted the partnership's success in rewarding cardmembers' spending with valuable travel rewards and memorable experiences. "We're delighted to celebrate this milestone with our mutual customers through an exclusive anniversary flight, combining exceptional Avios value with a truly memorable trip to New York," she stated.
Colm Lacy, chief commercial officer at British Airways, echoed this sentiment. "For 25 years, our partnership with American Express has set the standard for rewarding loyalty, creating exceptional travel experiences for millions of customers. This exclusive anniversary flight is a fitting way to celebrate that milestone, and we're delighted to be giving cardmembers the chance to turn their loyalty into a truly unforgettable journey to New York."
Registered cardmembers will receive booking instructions the day before bookings open on July 15, 2026. They will be able to book up to four seats per chosen cabin and may utilize up to two Companion Vouchers. Travelers accompanying the cardmember do not need to be cardmembers themselves. To be eligible for booking, cardmembers must possess sufficient Avios in their British Airways Club account for all intended seats. Seats are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis to pre-registered members.