Local aviation history is being made today as British Airways begins offering non-stop service from New Orleans to Heathrow Airport.
Four flights will be offered each week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Flights will depart the Louis Armstrong International Airport at 9:10 p.m. and arrive in London at noon the following day.
British Airways is offering three-class service with a Boeing 787-8.
Sean Doyle, Director of Networks and Alliances, said: "We are really excited to be adding New Orleans to British Airways' extensive global network. It's a city that boasts an iconic music and arts scene and plays host to more than 130 festivals a year, including the world famous Mardi Gras."
"Holidaymakers can enjoy the jazz and blues music trails, visit the historic sugarcane plantations, cruise down the Mississippi River or relax on the unspoiled Gulf Shores and Orange Beaches which are just a short drive away," he said.
Return trips depart from Heathrow at 3:40 p.m. and arrive in New Orleans at 7:40 p.m.