British Airways Adds Melbourne as Winter Routes Shift
British Airways has started its winter 2026 timetable with new flights to Colombo and a Melbourne service due to follow in January. The expanded schedule also brings more European departures and seasonal Christmas routes. But two familiar destinations are changing London airports: Fuerteventura moves to Heathrow and Innsbruck to Gatwick, affecting passengers who have already arranged transport, parking or connections.
Where BA’s Winter Routes Are Changing
- Colombo: Gatwick; 23 October; three weekly, winter-only; BA2045 16:40–08:35 next day; from £524 return.
- Melbourne: Heathrow via Kuala Lumpur; starts 9 January 2027; daily year-round; BA33 21:10–06:40 two days later; 22½h; from £1,110 return.
- Rovaniemi: Gatwick; twice weekly, 4 Dec–4 Jan.
- Fuerteventura: Moves Gatwick to Heathrow; twice weekly, mid-December–April.
- Innsbruck: Gatwick replaces Heathrow; 16 weekly, plus two from London City.
- Palermo: Year-round.
- Cairo: Three daily; Geneva: Up to 110 weekly.
Anyone flying to Fuerteventura or Innsbruck should check their airport before booking parking, rail tickets or a hotel. If an itinerary connects Heathrow and Gatwick, BA recommends at least three hours between flights. You'll collect checked bags and arrange your own transfer; National Express coaches start at £14.90 one way. International arrivals must also clear UK immigration and check entry requirements.
Those routes offer very different winter trips. Colombo provides a non-stop start to exploring Sri Lanka’s beaches and wildlife parks, while Melbourne opens up the Australian Open and road trips along the Great Ocean Road. Closer to home, BA is adding December departures to Cologne and Nuremberg for Christmas markets, while Rovaniemi provides a direct link to Santa Claus Village.
BA’s advertised return fares include taxes and carrier charges, but the final price depends on dates and cabin. Economy Basic fares exclude checked baggage. On seasonal Colombo services, confirm that your return date is available before committing to hotels or onward travel. British passport holders need a Sri Lankan ETA or an Australian visa before flying, so check official entry requirements before buying tickets.