Statement from British Airways

Three British Airways Boeing 767s remain out of service today (Thursday, November 30) following the identification of low traces of a radioactive substance onboard two of the aircraft.

The airline was advised on Tuesday evening by the UK government that the aircraft were part of the police investigation into the death of Alexander Litvinenko.

Two of the aircraft remain at London Heathrow following forensic testing.

The third aircraft remains in Moscow awaiting the necessary clearance to return to the UK.

The airline understands from advice it has been given that the risk to public health is low.

The airline is continuing to make every effort to contact 33,000 customers who travelled on 221 European flights operated by the three aircraft identified by the investigation.

It has taken calls from 2,500 customers on a special helpline as of 0900 UK time. The helpline remains open on + 44 (0) 191 211 3690 for international calls.

The airline has published the flights affected on its website, www.ba.com

Customers who travelled on these specific flights who wish to receive further advice are advised to telephone NHS Direct, if living in the UK, on 0845 4647, and international customers are advised to contact their local health authority .

The airline’s operation is expected to run normally today.

Further information will be released as it becomes available and information will be posted on the airline’s website.

För mer information,

Fredrik Gustafsson eller Marta Karlqvist, Presskontakter för British Airways Sverige, tlf: 08-402 01 01