British Airways' A350 first look as aircraft touches down at Heathrow

British Airways ' first Airbus A350 touched down at London Heathrow this weekend, marking a new era for the airline's fleet.

The Airbus A350, registration G-XWBA, is the first of 18 aircraft to join the BA fleet, with four of the new planes expected to be in operation before the end of the year.

Meanwhile, two Boeing 777 aircraft will also be retrofitted with the new cabin.

BA said that the first aircraft will begin on short-haul routes between London and Madrid "to allow the airline's teams to perfect their customer service delivery and familiarise cabin crew with the aircraft layout."

The plan is to eventually roll it out on long-haul routes to Dubai in September before adding more routes to the likes of Toronto, Tel Aviv and Bangalore.

There are plenty of swish updates for passengers to enjoy when they fly on board the aircraft.

British Airways has welcomed its first A350 into its fleet (British Airways)

We're talking reduced noise levels, high ceilings, ambient lighting to help you try and adjust to time zones and beat the dreaded jet lag, and higher levels of humidity so you feel far fresher than previous journeys.

There will be three cabins on board, including the airline's World Traveller Plus cabin with new furnishings, amenity kits and perks such improved in-flight dining.

The seats in the new Club Suite, the business class offering (British Airways)

But what's really caught aviation fans' attention is the new business class offering, Club Suite.

Think mini suites with their own doors for greater privacy, flat-bed seats, up to 40 per cent more storage (including a vanity and mirror), and of course more leg room.

There will be three cabins on board (British Airways)

The airline says that the A350 also offers environmental benefits as it has a 25 per cent lower fuel burn, reducing its CO2 emissions.

As well as the introduction of the new aircraft, 2019 is already proving a milestone year for the airline which is hosting plenty of centenary celebrations ahead of its August birthday. 

(British Airways)

Carolina Martinoli, British Airways’ Director of Brand and Customer Experience said: "We are delighted to welcome the first of our A350s to the fleet.

The A350 touched down at Heathrow this weekend (British Airways)

"This aircraft marks a significant and exciting milestone in our £6.5 billion investment programme and is even more special as it comes with our new Club Suite.

"The A350 is a fantastic aircraft and an excellent showpiece for British engineering. Our customers are going to love the space, light and comfort on board."