British Airways is to paint four of its aircraft in retro livery to celebrate its centenary.

The first to be given the makeover will be a Boeing 747, which will get a British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) design.

This livery was originally used between 1964 and 1974.

Our history has shaped who we are todayAlex Cruz, BA chief executive

It will arrive at Heathrow airport on February 18 and will enter service the following day.

The details of three more planes to be painted in retro liveries have yet to be disclosed.

British Airways chief executive Alex Cruz said: “So many British Airways customers and colleagues have fond memories of our previous liveries, regularly sharing their photos from across the globe, so it’s incredibly exciting to be re-introducing this classic BOAC design.

“Our history has shaped who we are today, so our centenary is the perfect moment to revisit our heritage and the UK’s aviation landscape through this iconic livery.”

The BOAC livery will remain on the Boeing 747 until the aircraft is taken out of service in 2023.

BA is celebrating its centenary this year as its forerunner company, Aircraft Transport and Travel Limited, launched the world’s first daily international scheduled flight between London and Paris.

The firm was incorporated into several airlines – including BOAC – until it became British Airways in 1974.

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PA Media