British Airways tells travellers to get to know 'ESTA'

British Airways' customers planning to visit the United States under the visa waiver scheme must ensure they comply with new US Customs regulations in advance of their travel.

From January 12, 2009 British Airways is required to comply with the mandatory Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA), introduced by the US government for all passengers flying into the United States under the visa waiver scheme.

ESTA adds another layer of security that allows the Department of Homeland Security to determine, in advance of travel, whether an individual is eligible to travel to the US

Customers who fail to apply for ESTA up to 72 hours before they depart are expected to be refused travel. Those making late bookings can still apply, but there is risk that they may not receive immediate confirmation.

Applying is easy - customers can provide the information online at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov or via their travel agent.

An approved ESTA application will be valid for two years and will allow multiple visits to the US within that period without a need to re-apply.

The new legislation requires all customers to provide personal information including their name, date of birth, and passport details, as well as optional travel information such as the flight number and destination address in the United States.

This is in addition to Advanced Passenger Information (API), which requires personal and travel details from the time of booking.

Jim Forster, British Airways' Government & Industry Affairs Manager, said: "The US is our biggest overseas market and we have been working hard to advise our visa waiver customers that they must apply to the Department of Homeland Security well in advance of travel.

"The website is quick and easy to use and the ESTA remains valid for two years.

"We will be sending reminder messages to customers who have given us their email details to invite them to apply for ESTA."

Customers are reminded that they must continue to fill in the green I-94W form available at check-in or onboard until further notice.

Customers requiring more information about the new Electronic System for Travel Authorisation can visit Ba.com.