British Airways Makes London–Costa Rica a Year-Round Route, Moving from Gatwick to Heathrow

British Airways officially upgraded its London–Costa Rica service to year-round operations starting 25 October 2026, simultaneously relocating the route from London Gatwick to London Heathrow. The airline will operate five flights per week between Heathrow and Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José from October 2026 through March 2027, then reduce to three weekly during the summer season (April–September 2027), making the connection permanent rather than seasonal. The aircraft deployed is a Boeing 787-800 Dreamliner with 204 seats across three cabins: 31 Club World, 37 World Traveller Plus and 136 World Traveller. Outbound flights depart Heathrow at 11:10 and arrive at 16:40 local time; the return leaves San José at 18:40. The shift to Heathrow gives passengers access to more than 130 onward connections within BA's network. The move follows multi-year negotiations between the Costa Rican Tourism Institute, airport operator Aeris and British Airways. Costa Rica recorded 7% growth in international arrivals through July 2026, and the airline is positioning the route to attract both eco-tourism and business travellers drawn to the country's 'Pura Vida' lifestyle and biodiversity.