In 2012, British Airways launched a playful and patriotic advert as part of its #HomeAdvantage campaign, celebrating Team GB during the London Olympic Games. The commercial imagines a British Airways passenger jet taxiing through central London, weaving across iconic landmarks such as Trafalgar Square, Westminster, and the streets leading to the Olympic Park.
The advert combines humor, creativity, and national pride, showing the massive aircraft navigating the streets in a lighthearted, fantastical scenario that captured the excitement and energy of the Olympics. The campaign emphasized BA’s connection to Britain and its role in supporting Team GB athletes.
Music in the British Airways Advert
Music Track: London Calling
Music Artist: The Clash
Album: London Calling
Year: 1979
The soundtrack for the advert is the energetic and iconic track “London Calling” by English punk rock band The Clash. Released in 1979 as the title track from their third studio album, the song captures the spirit of London with urgency and attitude, perfectly complementing the adventurous journey of the passenger jet through the city streets. The music added an edgy, patriotic backdrop to the Olympics-themed advert, making it instantly memorable.
Reception and Legacy
The advert was well-received for its clever concept, humor, and imaginative storytelling. It reinforced British Airways’ brand as a proud supporter of national events while also generating excitement and buzz around the 2012 London Olympics. The combination of the striking visual effects and classic Clash soundtrack made it a standout campaign in BA’s advertising history.