United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
BA fury at City junk bond decision
Carrier’s shares downgraded because of challenging industry environment
British Airways has reacted furiously to the news that its shares have been downgraded to “junk” status by an influencial investment ratings agency.
Standard & Poor’s, the US-based agency, lowered its “speculative” rating to BB+, saying that because of the “more challenging industry environment” prevailing at the moment, BA shares were unlikely to be given an “investment grade” rating for at least a few years.
The rating is in marked contrast to a recent decision by rival agency Moody’s, which last week chose to leave the BA rating unchanged.
BA’s chief financial officer John Rishton said he was “astonished” at the news. He reportedly told the Financial Times: “The Iraq war is over, SARS is fading, the US economy is showing signs of recovery and traffic volumes are improving from their worst levels. We have delivered all our targets and more, and the external environment is better.”
Shares in British Airways fell back 3.75p to 147.75p in Tuesday’s stock market trading.
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
Qatar Airways adding Manchester flights
EU entry-exit system delayed again
ATC strike in Greece could disrupt flights this week
Jet2 unveils Samos as new Greek destination for summer 2026
Icelandair launches inaugural flight to Nashville