British Airways Accepts HM Armed Forces Veteran Card as ID for Domestic Flights
(IN SHORT) British Airways has become the first airline to accept the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card as valid photographic identification for domestic flights in the UK. This policy change allows veterans to use their Veteran Card for travel, reflecting the airline’s commitment to supporting those who have served in the Armed Forces. Sean Doyle, Chairman and CEO of British Airways, emphasized the importance of the card in maintaining a connection to military careers. The initiative has been praised by government officials, including the Minister for Veterans, who highlighted its role in helping veterans access necessary support. British Airways continues to work closely with the Armed Forces, providing various initiatives to assist veterans in transitioning to civilian roles within the aviation industry. Other accepted forms of ID include passports and driving licenses, ensuring a seamless travel experience for all passengers.
(PRESS RELEASE) London, UK, 2024-Oct-10 — /Travel PR News/ — British Airways has announced a significant policy change, becoming the first airline to accept the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card as a valid form of photographic identification for domestic flights. This initiative allows veterans to utilize their Veteran Card for travel within the UK, demonstrating the airline’s ongoing support for those who have served in the Armed Forces.
This decision reflects British Airways’ commitment to honoring the contributions of veterans, as the airline employs numerous ex-military personnel across various roles, including pilots and engineers. Sean Doyle, Chairman and CEO of British Airways, expressed his pride in the skills and experience that veterans bring to the organization. He noted, “The Veteran Card serves as a meaningful connection to their military careers, and I am pleased that we can implement this change to acknowledge their sacrifice and service.”
Alistair Carns OBE MC MP, Minister for Veterans and People, praised British Airways for being the first airline to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and for recognizing the importance of the Veteran Card. He stated, “This card is essential for helping veterans access necessary support, and we appreciate British Airways’ continued dedication to the Armed Forces community.”
Aviation Minister Mike Kane added, “Those who risk their lives to protect our nation deserve our deepest gratitude, and facilitating easier access to air travel is one way to honor their service. British Airways is setting a commendable precedent, and I hope other airlines will follow suit.”
British Airways has long collaborated with the Armed Forces, offering initiatives such as managed pathways for veterans to transition into technical aviation roles, including licenced engineering positions. The airline also supports former military pilots in their seamless transition to commercial aviation.
While passports are not mandatory for domestic travel within the UK, airlines must request valid photographic identification before boarding. In addition to the Veteran Card, British Airways recognizes various forms of ID, including passports, driving licenses, employment ID cards, and residency cards, ensuring a smooth travel experience for all passengers.
This move underscores British Airways’ dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for veterans and enhancing their travel experience.
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SOURCE: British Airways
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