(14 Jan 2021)
To mark the retirement of its Boeing 747 fleet,
British Airways has partnered with Globe-Trotter to create a
limited-edition range of carry-on suitcases which
celebrate the spirit of the jumbo jet age.
Taking inspiration from the airline’s BOAC
livery, which also adorned the final British Airways aircraft to
retire in December 2020, the BOAC Speedbird suitcases have been
handmade in England and incorporate the iconic ‘Gold Speedbird’
insignia and a fragment from a retired British Airways
747 aircraft.
To officially launch the range, two of the suitcases are being auctioned via online auction platform
‘bid_in’ to raise funds for Flying Start, British Airways’ global
charity partnership with Comic Relief. With bids starting at £2,000 per item, the BOAC
Speedbird suitcases are set to become an instant collectors’ item.
Hamish McVey, British Airways’ Head of Brands &
Marketing, said, “We are thrilled to be working with Globe-Trotter
to create this very special product, and through this unique
auction raise money for vital Comic Relief projects across the UK
and overseas. While it was the right time to bid farewell to
our Queen of the Skies, the launch of these BOAC-inspired carry-on
suitcases provides a perfect opportunity for someone to celebrate
a bygone era of global air travel and own a piece of our
history.”
The suitcases are made from high gloss vulcanised
fibreboard with a metallic sheen for a pearlescent white shimmer,
which is complemented by navy leather trim on the corners and
handles. The hand-painted ‘Gold Speedbird’ insignia adorns the
exterior, while the 747 fragment decorates the interior.
The range
is limited to just 150 suitcases which are available to order
online and in Globe-Trotter’s flagship stores.
Vicente Castellano, Executive Chairman,
Globe-Trotter, said, “We at Globe-Trotter could not be happier to
collaborate with British Airways and support their important
Flying Start programme. The commemorative BOAC case that we have created
together, is the perfect celebration of travel and style – two
values that have inspired the past and indeed the future of
Globe-Trotter.”
Since the partnership with Comic Relief began in
2010, British Airways has raised over £25 million for the charity
through Flying Start, reaching more than 824,000 people.
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