British Airways has today announced that they will now accept HM Armed Forces ID as an acceptable form of identification for domestic travel within the UK, becoming the first airline to honor veterans and their service in this way.
On Tuesday (October 8, 2024), British Airways announced that they will now accept HM Armed Forces ID as an acceptable form of identification for guests traveling domestically within the UK. This change in policy is part of the support provided to veterans by the airline, which employs hundreds of ex-Military team members, from pilots to engineers.
In Tuesday’s announcement, British Airways’ Chairman and CEO, Sean Doyle, said,
“I’m incredibly proud of our colleagues who have served their country and of the professionalism, skill and experience they bring to our organisation. We know through our conversations with veterans that this card provides them with a way of maintaining a tangible link to their military careers. I’m delighted that we’ve been able to make this change as it underlines our commitment to recognising their sacrifice and service.”
Also commenting on the policy change, the UK’s Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns OBE MC MP, said,
“It is extremely fitting that the first airline to sign the Armed Forces Covenant is the first airline to make Veteran Cards a valid form of ID. We thank British Airways for their continued support of the Armed Forces Community, those who serve and have served make extraordinary sacrifices to ensure Britain is safe at home and secure abroad, and it is vital that they receive the recognition they deserve. The veteran card is an important tool to help veterans access the support that they need.”
The UK’s Aviation Minister, Mike Kane, added,
“Those who serve in our armed forces selflessly risk their lives to protect our country and offering them easier access to air travel is just one way of showing our deep gratitude for their service. British Airways is setting an excellent example in supporting our veterans, and I hope this inspires other airlines to follow their lead.”
This is just British Airways’ latest move to show appreciation for veterans, joining the carrier’s other initiatives such as the managed pathway scheme, which offers a structured career path for former military personnel, or those transitioning from the military, to achieve the qualifications to become engineers with the company. BA has also worked with the Armed Forces on managed path programs for pilots, allowing a seamless transition from the military flight deck to the commercial aviation cockpit.
Source: British Airways
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