Work has started on building British Airways’ first Airbus A380 superjumbo which is due for delivery next year.
BA has ordered 12 of the world’s largest passenger aircraft and 24 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
This means it is on track to be first airline in the world to have both aircraft types in its fleet.
Routes for the airline’s first A380 and B787 will be announced in due course, BA said.
Details of the seating configuration of both aircraft types has yet to be revealed.
Dedicated teams are working behind the scenes for the entry into service of both the A380 and B787 Dreamliner later next year.
BA chief executive Keith Williams said: “We’re really excited that work has started on building the first of our 12 Airbus A380s.
“They represent a significant part of a huge investment by British Airways, of £5 billionn over the next five years in new aircraft, smarter cabins, elegant lounges, and new technologies to make life more comfortable in the air and on the ground.
“Our teams across the airline have been working in partnership with Airbus to ensure that preparations are well underway for us to receive this pioneering and leading edge aircraft, so that it goes smoothly into service for British Airways for the first time next year.
“Until then, we’ll continue working towards the successful delivery of both the A380 and B787, to ensure our customers have a fantastic flying experience on these amazing aircraft.”