The FINANCIAL — As the new face of British Airways' in-flight children's Skyflyer packs, Paddington Bear on October 27 made an exclusive appearance at Gatwick airport as he was spotted checking in for the BA2037 to Orlando to join children flying off for their half term holidays.
In his famous hat and duffel coat, Paddington explained that instead of travelling home to Peru he had opted for the sunshine coast of Florida to celebrate the launch.
Activity bags, which have been designed to look like Paddington's famous and well-travelled suitcase, will be available for children between the ages of three and five. As an extra treat, from November the in-flight entertainment system will also be showing Paddington Bear programmes and children will be able to print off colouring sheets and luggage labels from www.ba.com before they travel.
In the absence of any marmalade sandwiches, the pack itself contains an activity book, stickers and crayons to keep children entertained. The case can then be re-used as a practical bag for school or play. Young travellers on return flights to Gatwick will also be given a Paddington rucksack containing a different version of the magazine and a set of finger puppets.
Members of the British Airways Kids' Council – a selection of children who advise BA on all things to do with their age group – have also helped design a neoprene pencil case for children between the ages of six and twelve. The pack contains a magazine filled with features, puzzles and interesting facts from around the world, and comes with a multi-colour pen and a pack of playing cards. On the return flight, older children will also be offered a stylish frosted plastic case, which like the outbound gift can be re-used as a washbag or pencil case for school.
