BRITISH Airways yesterday announced plans to introduce a fifth weekly flight to the island, beginning next June.

And, for passengers planning to travel on BA this winter, the airline is offering a new class of travel targeting its regular economy customers.

The changes were part of the airline's commitment to Bermuda, BA district manager Philip Troake said.

"We intend to support the all-important business and tourism sectors and assist with the recovery of the island following Hurricane Fabian, by introducing a fifth service on the Bermuda-London route starting next summer," he said yesterday.

"In addition, with the start of the winter schedule on October 28, the Boeing 777s on the route will feature the airline's award-winning business class, Club World, and a new fourth class of travel called World Traveller Plus."

The new class, he said, was tailored to the needs of "long-haul economy customers who want extra comfort at an affordable price".

Designed with seats in forward- and rear-facing pairs, British Airways' Club World cabin features armchair-style seats which convert into a fully-flat, six-foot bed at the touch of a button. The unique, lounge-style layout is designed to maximise personal space and privacy, with each seat also featuring individual privacy screens.

Since it was first introduced on flights, Club World has won praise from the design and travel industry, including the Grand Prix at the International Design Effectiveness Awards.

"But, more importantly, it has won the endorsement of our customers," Mr. Troake added. "Our customers expect British Airways to be the industry leader in whichever class they travel - and they won't be disappointed."

All British Airways flights between Bermuda and London will have the new features beginning this October.

Meanwhile, until further notice, or the Causeway is back to normal, the scheduled time for flights arriving from London on the island is 3.45 p.m. Departure time is 6 p.m.