British Airways is launching a new service to Oakland, San Francisco Bay on March 28th, 2017.

It will be the airline’s first route from Gatwick to California, and its fifth service from London to the ‘Golden State’.

Oakland offers close connections to world-famous landmarks including Napa Valley, Carmel and Yosemite national park.

The airport will also provide easy access to other parts of the Bay area, in particular San Francisco which is just a 30 minute ride by train or a 34 minute drive by car.

The route will be served by a 777-200ER aircraft operating four-days a week.

Colm Lacy, British Airways head of commercial at Gatwick, said: “We’re very excited to open up California to our customers in the Gatwick area and position British Airways as the number one European carrier to the Golden State.

“Boasting 260 days of sunshine, award-winning restaurants, some of the world’s best wine, a buzzing tech industry, great sports teams and world-renowned tourist attractions - there’s something for everyone.

Perfectly placed in North California, Oakland also makes a good starting point for road trips, with San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego and Los Angeles, all within easy reach for fly-drive enthusiasts.

British Airways offers multi-destination bookings, allowing customers to fly in and out of different airports.