By: Rhe-Ann Prescod

For the first time ever, British Airways travellers will have the chance to sip the ‘rum that invented’ on their journey to Barbados.

During the month of April, Mount Gay rum will be served on board all British Airways flights from UK to Barbados via London Heathrow and Gatwick gateways.

Specifically, Mount Gay, XO will be served in First and Club World and Mount Gay Eclipse in World Traveller Plus and World Traveller.

This historic gesture is in celebration of British Airways’ 70th anniversary of direct flights to Barbados. On April 1st, 1954, the first one-stop flight to Barbados departed from London Heathrow and 70 years later British Airways now has daily direct services via London Heathrow and Gatwick.

What’s so symbolic about this moment?

Rum is deeply rooted in Barbados’ history and cultural identity as the island literally invented rum.

According to historians, Mount Gay Distillery, formerly known as Mount Gilboa, may have been producing rum as early as the 17th century. However, the first official deed is dated February 20th , 1703 which gives Barbados the honour to be called the Birthplace of the oldest rum in the world.

Fun Fact: Barbados National Hero and global superstar Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty shares the same birthday as the deed that established Mount Gay Rum – February 20th

With the commitment of preserving over 300 years of history, Trudiann Brancker, the first and only female master blender continues to make the finest blends of this liquid gold.

So, when travellers get a sip of Mount Gay rum, they would probably will be enticed to book a rum tour, secure a bottle as a memory or learn how to make a few rum cocktails during their vacation on island.

A Platinum Celebration

The celebration also continues off board as Barbados will host an exclusive reception at Ilaro Court, the official residence of the Hon. Mia Amor Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados on Wednesday 24th April. The event will welcome distinguished guests including, Hon Ian Gooding-Edghill, Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Barbados and Colm Lacy, Chief Commercial Officer for British Airways.

Also in attendance will be Mike Bannister, a now-retired Concorde captain, who has piloted many flights to the island including the final Concorde flight to Barbados. Barbados was one of the four countries with a regular Concorde flight and 2023 marked 20 years since the final landing of the Concorde at Grantley Adams International Airport.

The platinum celebration will also include, an exclusive Avios and Club Class promotion, familiarisation trips for media and top-selling UK travel agents, and other inflight activations.

As Barbados and British Airways mark this significant milestone, one should be proud of the many accomplishments created through seven decades of partnerships.