Contact British Airways customer service
Contact British Airways. UK and US phone numbers, online chat, Executive Club support, Avios redemptions and UK 261 / EU 261 compensation information.
Fastest way to reach British Airways
Pick the channel that matches your request — it reduces wait time and avoids transfers:
- Same-day changes, delayed or missed flight, medical assistance — call the phone number above.
- Baggage (lost, damaged, delayed) — start with the airline's online baggage tracer, then follow up by phone if unresolved.
- Refund or reimbursement — submit the online refund form on the official airline website.
- Name change, seat selection, booking modification — easiest through "Manage my booking" on the website; phone as fallback.
- Complaint or feedback — use the written complaint form on the airline's website so the case is traceable.
Common British Airways support topics
Baggage claim. If your luggage arrives damaged, missing, or delayed, report it at the airport baggage desk before leaving and keep your baggage tag — the reference number is required for the online tracer. Compensation for lost baggage is governed by the Montreal Convention.
Refunds and reimbursement. Refund eligibility depends on the fare rules of your ticket. Non-refundable tickets may still qualify for a tax refund or travel voucher. When British Airways cancels a flight, you can request a full cash refund via the online form regardless of fare class.
Name change and booking modification. Minor spelling corrections (up to 3 characters) are typically free. Larger changes, passenger substitution, or date/route changes follow your fare's change rules — check "Manage my booking" before calling.
Online check-in. British Airways online check-in typically opens 24–30 hours before departure. At London Heathrow and most major hubs, you can drop bags at self-service kiosks. Mobile boarding passes are supported in the airline app.
Special assistance. Request mobility, medical or unaccompanied-minor assistance at least 48 hours before departure through the contact channels above. Bringing a service dog or medical equipment requires advance notification.
Passenger rights in the EU (Regulation 261/2004)
If your British Airways flight departs from an EU airport, or arrives at an EU airport operated by an EU carrier, you may be entitled to compensation and care under EU Regulation 261/2004 when:
- your flight is delayed 3 hours or more on arrival;
- your flight is cancelled less than 14 days before departure;
- you are denied boarding due to overbooking.
Compensation ranges from €250 to €600 depending on flight distance, and is not payable for delays caused by extraordinary circumstances such as severe weather or air-traffic control strikes. You are also entitled to meals, refreshments and, where necessary, overnight accommodation during long waits.
This is informational, not legal advice. Submit claims to British Airways via the contact channels above, or consult the EU air passenger rights overview on Your Europe.
Frequently asked questions about British Airways
- What is British Airways's customer service phone number?
- British Airways customer service can be reached at +44 344 493 0787.
- Where can I find British Airways support online?
- Visit https://www.britishairways.com/travel/home/public/en_gb for official support options.
- Does British Airways customer service offer support in English?
- Yes, British Airways offers English-speaking customer service. Call +44 344 493 0787 for support in English.
- Is British Airways customer service available 24 hours?
- British Airways customer service is not always available 24 hours a day. Check the opening hours section on this page for the current schedule.
Related airlines
Other Oneworld airlines: Aer Lingus · Alaska Airlines · American Airlines · Cathay Pacific · Finnair
Other airlines based in United Kingdom: easyJet · Jet2.com · TUI
About British Airways
British Airways was founded in 1974 and is headquartered in Harmondsworth, England. Its primary hub is London Heathrow (LHR), with a secondary base at London Gatwick (LGW). IATA code BA, ICAO code BAW.
British Airways is a founding member of the Oneworld alliance.