British Airways is first airline to accept Veteran Card for domestic flights ID

British Airways has announced that it is the first airline to accept the Veteran Card as photographic identification on domestic flights.

The chief executive, Sean Doyle, said that this move emphasises the company's dedication to acknowledging the "sacrifice and service" of ex-military personnel. The Veteran Card was launched by the Conservative government in January as a means for individuals to verify their military service.

Mr Doyle expressed his pride in the BA staff who have served their country, praising their professionalism, skill, and experience. He said: "I’m incredibly proud of our colleagues who have served their country and of the professionalism, skill and experience they bring to our organisation."

'We know through our conversations with veterans that this card provides them with a way of maintaining a tangible link to their military careers. I’m delighted that we’ve been able to make this change as it underlines our commitment to recognising their sacrifice and service."

employs hundreds of former military personnel in various roles, from piloting planes to engineering, and works closely with the armed forces to assist people transitioning from military to civilian roles within the airline. Alistair Carns, the minister for veterans and people, thanked British Airways for their ongoing support of the armed forces community, stating: "Those who serve and have served make extraordinary sacrifices to ensure Britain is safe at home, and secure abroad, and it is vital that they receive the recognition they deserve."

Aviation minister Mike Kane has praised British Airways for their support of veterans, stating: "Those who serve in our armed forces selflessly risk their lives to protect our country. Offering them easier access to air travel is just one way of showing our deep gratitude for their service."

He also commended the airline for setting an excellent example and expressed his hope that other airlines would follow suit. Currently, airlines are required to ask passengers for photographic identification before they board domestic UK flights.

British Airways already accepts identification cards for serving armed forces personnel. Other forms of ID deemed valid by the carrier include passports, driving licences, employment ID cards and residency cards.

However, former service personnel were turned away from polling stations during the local elections in May after being unable to use their Veteran Card for identification. Downing Street stated at the time that the government intended to add the card to its list of acceptable methods of proving a voter's identity.