England Rugby Squad fly to France with 'Hope and Glory'

British Airways will fly the England rugby squad to France today (September 3). The airline is the official carrier of the team and in their honour has re-named the aircraft 'Hope and Glory' to send them off in the spirit they deserve.

In order to deliver the team fit and ready to compete, British Airways will be serving the team a range of high protein and energising foods which include; chicken breast, tuna mix and oat cakes, chicken satay, hard boiled eggs and mixed nuts and raisins.
Hydration is also key to the team's performance so the airline will equip the one-hour 15-minute flight between London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle airports with an additional 30 litres of water.

Luisa Fernandez, British Airways' sponsorship manager, said: "We are proud to be behind the team and have named our aircraft in support of England. We wish the England rugby team the best of luck!"

British Airways also held a competition to give fans the opportunity to send messages of good-will to the team, some of which will be displayed on seat head rests throughout the flight. Favourites include: "Like a rose to the sun - onwards and upwards" and "Fight the good fight with all your guile and might".

Ellie Hill, British Airways' Captain operating the flight and England rugby fan said: "It is an honour to fly the team to France. The rest of the crew and I wish them every success."

BA is encouraging fans to continue to show their support by posting messages through a microsite: Ba.com/rugby. Fans will have the chance to win exclusive prizes, signed rugby shirts and rugby balls.