By Neil Lancefield

British Airways is to introduce direct flights to Melbourne as part of an expansion of its long-haul links.

The airline said it will operate a daily return flight between London Heathrow and the Victorian capital from January 9 next year.

This will be in time for the 2027 Australian Open tennis tournament and Australian Formula One Grand Prix. Melbourne was also recently voted the best city in the world by Time Out magazines.

The flights will be an extension of BA’s existing service to Kuala Lumpur.

The only Australian destination served by the UK carrier at present is Sydney via Singapore.

Qantas operates non-stop flights from Heathrow to Perth, but its flights in the opposite direction currently need a fuel stop in Singapore because of airspace restrictions in the Middle East.

Neil Chernoff, British Airways’ chief planning and strategy officer, said: “We’re delighted to announce sizeable growth to our flying schedule for winter 2026, including two notable new destinations that I’m confident will prove popular with our customers.

“We’re also increasing services across several high-demand routes around the world.

“Together, these changes represent a significant investment in our long-haul leisure network, adding even more options and choice for our customers.”