Bridger, Al British Airways in 100 Objects

British Airways looks back on a history that is virtually unique. Spanning a period of more than a centuryfrom the inaugural flight of Aircraft Transport and Travel Ltd. from London to Paris in 1919 to the modern, fuel-efficient aircraft of todays fleetBritish Airways has proudly connected Britain with the world, and the world with Britain. Throughout this journeyshaped by the rapidly evolving early years of aviation pioneers, when crossing continents in biplanes and seaplanes still took days; leading through the post-war luxury of the piston-engine era and the iconic Jet Age of the legendary Boeing 707 and 747; witnessing the supersonic marvel of Concorde; and finally culminating in the modern era of travelBritish Airways has borne witness to countless historical events and carried literally billions of passengers. Over the course of this journey, an immense wealth of precious memorabilia was amassed; much of it is now displayed or preserved at British Airways headquarters near Heathrowwithin a truly extraordinary museum: the Speedbird Centre. A significant portion of this archive is of national importance and is preserved as part of the national cultural heritage. From humble mementos of onboard operations to the Olympic Torch, the exhibits featured in this book offer but a brief glimpse into this collectionbringing decades of aviation history vividly back to life.