British Airways is introducing First class on its popular Las Vegas route next summer (from June 1, 2011) and increasing capacity by 18 per cent.

The direct daily flight from Terminal 5 at Heathrow was launched a year ago and operated by a three-class Boeing 777.  A four-class B747 offering BA’s First cabin will replace it.

By moving to a B747, BA will be sending an additional 124 seats on every round trip. Each flight will now have 14 seats in First.

Richard Tams, British Airways head of marketing and sales, said: “Our direct service from London Heathrow to Las Vegas has been one of our most successful launches in recent years.

“It is one of the star performing routes on the BA network and such a winner with our customers that we are increasing capacity by 18 per cent from next summer and offering that extra touch of luxury.”