British Airways is relaunching daily flights to and from Melbourne after a 20-year hiatus, becoming the first UK airline to fly to Australia since 2014. The airline announced the move on Tuesday as part of its winter expansion.
Flights from London to Melbourne via Kuala Lumpur will commence on January 9, 2027, with return flights beginning two days later. Passengers can choose from First, World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), and Club World (business class).
Melbourne Airport Chief Executive Officer Lorie Argus welcomed the return, calling it a big win for the city. 'We are thrilled to welcome British Airways back to Melbourne Airport,' she said, noting the airline's reputation for excellence and reliability.
Argus highlighted the economic benefits, stating that each daily international service injects around $190 million into the Victorian economy annually. She also pointed to Melbourne's recent recognition as Time Out's 'best city in the world' and its large British expat community as drivers of demand.
Flights will depart London Heathrow daily at 9:10pm, arriving in Kuala Lumpur at 6:05pm the following day, then landing in Melbourne at 6:40am the day after. Return flights depart Melbourne at 4:35pm, arriving in London at 5:20am the next morning. Return fares start from just over $2,100 and are on sale from March 17.