Explore St. Louis Welcomes Direct Flight Between St. Louis and London, Slated to Launch April 2026 Wednesday October 1, 2025 By Catherine Neville Operated by British Airways, which enjoys premier status as a top global airline, the STL-LHR nonstop service expands opportunities for leisure and business travel ST. LOUIS, Missouri (Oct. 1, 2025) – Explore St. Louis, the official destination marketing organization for the St. Louis region and operator of the America's Center Convention Complex, is pleased to welcome nonstop service between St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) and London Heathrow Airport (LHR). Aboard British Airways, the St. Louis-London flights are scheduled to launch on April 19, 2026, and operate four times per week. St. Louis is a vibrant city where Midwestern charm meets cosmopolitan energy, making it a standout destination for both leisure visitors and business travelers who appreciate a dynamic blend of history and innovation plus a diverse culinary landscape. The British Airways flight announcement comes at a pivotal moment for St. Louis, as the region prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026 and serve as a gateway to FIFA World Cup games in Kansas City and other U.S. host cities. The new service brings London just 8 to 9 hours from St. Louis, opening a world of possibilities for travelers across the region. London Heathrow, one of the globe’s busiest and most connected airports, offers direct flights to over 200 destinations, making Europe and beyond more accessible than ever from the heart of the Midwest. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway, an immersive cultural adventure or a longer vacation, this direct route makes exploring both St. Louis and London easier, faster and more exciting than ever. “We are thrilled that British Airways sees the value and potential in prioritizing St. Louis, and appreciate St. Louis County Port Authority and St. Louis Lambert International Airport for working together to enhance connectivity between the Gateway City and the U.K.,” said Brad Dean, President and CEO of Explore St. Louis. “In addition to leisure travel, nonstop service between St. Louis and London is a win for the meetings and events industry. This new route gives international companies and associations a direct and competitive option to gather in a flexible, state-of-the-art convention complex in St. Louis, a centrally located, thriving destination for meetings.” “Connectivity is the lifeblood of the global travel economy,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO, U.S. Travel Association. “With the launch of British Airways’ nonstop service to St. Louis from London, European travelers now have a direct gateway to the heart of the United States. St. Louis is an authentically American city that offers a vibrant mix of history, culture and innovation, making it an unforgettable destination for both leisure and business travelers.” St. Louis offers world-class conference facilities, incentive travel opportunities and a seamless business travel infrastructure. Direct access to London will strengthen St. Louis’s ability to attract visitors, conventions and major international events, while also supporting the region’s business and trade sectors. The British Airways service between St. Louis Lambert International Airport and London Heathrow is expected to have a significant and lasting impact on the regional economy. Industry research and peer city benchmarks show that nonstop services to Europe can generate between $50 million and $100 million annually for a metro economy. For St. Louis, that means stronger global business ties, new tourism revenue and an enhanced ability to compete on the world stage. Explore St. Louis will collaborate with Brand USA, the nation’s public–private destination marketing organization, to leverage this new service and elevate the city’s reputation abroad. Together, these efforts will showcase St. Louis as a unique city full of culture, creativity and opportunity. From world-class museums and lively neighborhoods to state-of-the-art event venues, St. Louis offers experiences that are both authentic and memorable. The region welcomes visitors with warmth, vitality and a distinctive sense of place. Now, with direct air service to London, this distinctly American city is more accessible than ever for travelers from around the globe! ### ABOUT EXPLORE ST. LOUIS Explore St. Louis is the driving force behind St. Louis’ $5.7 billion convention and tourism industry, the official destination marketing organization of St. Louis City and County, and operator of the America’s Center Convention Complex and The Dome. For more information, please visit: https://explorestlouis.com/. MEDIA CONTACTS BerlinRosenPublic Relations AgencyExplore St. Louisexplorestl@berlinrosen.com Catherine NevilleVice President, CommunicationsExplore St. Louis(O) 314-992-0654 / (M) 314-629-2282 Share
