Buying BA shares for perks.

Smiley_Mum

Does anyone know what perks British Airways offer for shareholders? Considering buying some shares but not sure what the minimum holding is. Anyone know what it is? If we go anywhere, once a year trip, we like to go from our local small regional airport rather than the hassles of travelling to Glasgow/Edinburgh etc, particularly with the kids being little. Just wondered if anyone had BA shares and what perks they offered. Any info appreciated. Also cheapest place for buying shares. Thanks.

albreda

Shareholders who hold 200 or more shares on a record date in November each year are entitled to the shareholder discount, which is 10% on BA flights for themself and up to five travel companions. For those on the register the coupon is sent to them automatically, for those through a nominee, ISA, your plan manager has to apply for the coupon on your behalf.

Fatboy_NSS

Chances are this is 10% off the full fare price. I'd imagine the rates you get from an online travel agent would be lower than the BA shareholder deal, though I'd be happy to be proven wrong.

Smiley_Mum

I've had quite good deals with BA booking direct through the site, but unfortunately not this year as I booked too early. Oh well... Just like to fly from the small local airport and BA are the only airline that fly to London and are reliable time wise.

albreda

Why not contact BA and ask?

I understand that the share price is nearly £3 per share right now though, so 200 shares would set a person back a bit.

mbamick

Albedra makes a very valid point, insofar that we shouldn't invest in shares solely for the shareholder perks. You may be able to save 10% on a £250 flight ticket, but this would be outweighed by a 5% fall in the share price [-£30].

That said, Hargreaves Lansdown maintain an on-line directory of Shareholder Perks. The BA one is listed, as is the process that eligible shareholders need to follow.