British Airways reported an operating profit of £2,2 billion (R49,2 billion) for 2025, an increase of £182 million (R4 billion) compared with 2024, according to financial results released by parent company IAG.
The airline and its subsidiary carriers, Cityflyer and Euroflyer, achieved this operating profit at an operating margin of 15,2%, up one percentage point year on year.
Flight operations increased by 1,7% compared with 2024 levels, demonstrating what the airline described as a strong year for both operational and financial performance.
“In 2025, we delivered a strong operating profit as we continued our business-wide transformation to modernise our airline, improve every experience for customers and colleagues and build a more resilient and sustainable business for the future,” said British Airways CEO, Sean Doyle.
The airline reported a new record for punctuality of its operations, with 82% of its flights departing within 15 minutes of original departure time, up from 73% in 2024.
“British Airways flew 46,7 million customers to 183 destinations across almost 308 000 flights. Reliable operations were the biggest driver for our customer satisfaction, including better punctuality and fewer cancellations creating a smoother customer experience,” said Doyle.
During the year, British Airways introduced new aircraft featuring its updated short-haul cabin interiors and unveiled a new global lounge concept in Miami and Dubai. Doyle said London Heathrow lounges were next in line for redevelopment.
Outlook for 2026
In 2026, British Airways will introduce free, high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi, a new First Class seat concept and a redesigned app.
“The roll-out of Starlink is making excellent progress, and I’m pleased to announce that the first British Airways flight with free Starlink Wi-Fi will take off in March,” said Doyle.
