To commemorate Armistice Day, British Airways pulled out all the stops by flying a group of veterans out to Amsterdam. The move was part of the #BAMagic100 campaign as the airline celebrates its own centenary.

Earlier this year, British Airways celebrated its 100th anniversary. The airline was initially founded as Air Transport And Travel in 1919. As part of its centenary celebrations, the British Airline has committed to creating 100 moments of magic for its customers throughout 2019. When the airline became aware of a group of veterans flying to Amsterdam to remember the 75th anniversary of Operation Market Garden, they knew that had to make the day extra special.

Starting off in the airport

The festivities began when the group of veterans arrived at London Gatwick airport for their flight. Upon arrival at the airport, the group was welcomed by the Gatwick Caledonian drum and pipe band. Unbeknown to them, British Airways had set up a dedicated check-in desk to save them from queueing.

British Airways, Veterans, World War 2
The group was welcomed by a band at check-in. Photo: British Airways

Once the group had checked in for their flight, they were escorted to the galleries lounge. Here, a special area was reserved for the group to enjoy themselves prior to boarding the flight.

British Airways, Veterans, World War 2
The group were able to relax in the lounge before their flight. Photo: British Airways

A very special flight

The flight itself proved to be incredibly special for one member of the group. Earlier that day, Denis Hosgood's daughter had been at his house wishing him a safe trip to Amsterdam. His daughter, Denise Hunter, works as a Customer Service Manager for British Airways.

British Airways, Veterans, World War 2
The crew took special care of the Veterans. Photo: British Airways

The airline organised for Mr Hosgood to be the first to board the special flight to Amsterdam. When he boarded the flight, he was surprised to be greeted by his daughter, who would be operating the flight. Mrs Hunter told her father that the special surprise had been nine months in the making.

Onboard the flight, the veterans were in for even more treats, right down to special little touches. In the Club Europe cabin, they were treated to individual personalized headrests. They also received a special welcome onboard the flight from its captain.

Commenting about flying her father to Amsterdam, Mrs Hunter said:

“It was a privilege to be able to serve these ladies and gentlemen in our centenary year. Time spent with this generation is precious and seeing the look of joy on my parents’ faces when I surprised them on board was a magical moment."

What do you make of the lengths British Airways went to to ensure the Veterans had an extra special flight. Have you witnessed a moment of British Airways magic? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!