Sue Van-Averbeke
I joined BCAL in Houston in 1981, relocated to Gatwick in 1985 and stayed until 1991. I'm now back in Houston, it's great to see this tribute, and to see names I remember. Great job. Look forward to hearing from anyone who remembers me.
Lex van der Pauw
Great site and nice to see some old names! Be nice to see a few more Cabin Crew names from 'May 77 onwards. Any Cabin Crew reunions in the offing? A great tribute to Sir Adam. If you remember me -mail me!
James F Vaughn Sacked by Horace Cox in 1981, though I still have B-Cal blood in my veins.
Mike Vaughan
It is with sadness we learn that Captain Mike Vaughan recently passed away. A service was held at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium on Friday 19th March. Our sympathies to Mike's family and friends
Alain VINCENS
I worked with BCAL CDG 1977-1983. Fantastic days in a fighting-spirit airline. Have worked since with SN, BA (of which I got cured rapidly!), now with Air Littoral as a Mgr Ground Handling Contracts. Good news is that the French Golden Lions have regular outings....keeps the spirit on! anyone wishing to contact me is welcome.
Katy Wadwell (nee Kirkham)
I joined B-cal in1981 as a summer temp and stayed until we merged with BA! I loved every minute, such wonderful times and people too. I worked as ground staff on checkin and the helicopter. Was lucky enough to work in DXB during the take over. Travelled the world with the best airline ever. Love the site its fab, just like the airline was.
Hugh Waghorn (from Tom Waghorn) Updated email
If anyone knew my Father, Hugh Waghorn and wants to chat with him, please click the link.
Mike Walder
Joined BUA in 1969 in Load control , onto Service control (Redcap) finally Training dept, prior to the 'oil crisis' and redundancy in 1974 . Met and Married Diane nee Jeffs who also worked in BCAL load control, we are still together after 27 years .Recently met up again with old Load control mates Tom Crossman and Ray Bridgeman . Still miss the buzz of those days after all this time .Would like to hear from any one else from that time
Lyndsey Walker (nee Robinson)
Flew between 1971-1982 and then went off to Bahrain after marrying a Gulfair pilot I picked up on a beach there!
Best days of my life ever - it will never be the same. Still in regular touch with Beryl Hulme, Kathy Acton amongst others.
Would love to hear from anyone that flew with me!
Angela Waller (nee Austin)
I was never actually a crew member if British Caledonian, though I was with the parent airlines of BCal for some years. I joined Hunting-Clan on 20th May 1957, and left (by which time it had become British United Airways) on 29th June 1962. I had a wonderful time for all those years. Since then I've lived and worked around the world -- Libya (I met and married my American husband while working in Libya in 1966 and we often flew BCal in and out of Libya for some years), California, Texas, Canada I always try to get to the British United biennial reunion. I've just fulfilled a near lifelong ambition -- my first novel has been published! It was launched on 7th February 2009, called "The Snows of Yorkshire" and its doing well.
My next book is non-fiction and is called Before There Were Trolley Dollies and it was published on 3rd July 2009 and the 'info' on the back reads as follows: "Angela Waller, who was an air hostess in the 1950s and 1960s, when it was considered a glamorous and highly sought after job, tells everything you ever wanted to know about what went on in that golden age of passenger flying. In this fascinating book, she shares her experiences and tells stories from the hilarious to the harrowing, the factual to the funny, about the famous and the gossip. And she tells how very different things were, back in those says before there were trolley dollies...."
Please see my website: www.angelawaller.co.uk I'd be happy for anyone I knew when I was flying to get in touch with me through here or through my website.
Mike Wallis
Moved from Air Charter to BUA in 1960 then progressed to BCAL and finally BA, for two years.Originally based at Southend I flew the B170, DC4, Carvair and DC6. Then to Gatwick to fly the BAC 1-11, B707, DC10 and the B747 100/200. Had a wonderfull time in both BUA and BCAL and have many fond memories of all those I worked with. Retired (forcibly) by BA in 1990 I have since been living the life of a country yokel in darkest East Sussex. My best regards to anyone who remembers me.
Trevor Warburton
Joined BUA in 1960 as a Junior Airframe Fitter. Stayed 27 years. Last two jobs, VP SW USA Atlanta, before that GM Ground Ops Gatwick. I attended Sir Adam's memorial in London. I was working in Macau, MD of joint venture ground handling co...part of Menzies Aviation Group, the is CEO Peter Smith ex BCAL Marketing Director, David Coltman is on our Board and Phil Bowell with us in Bahrain. I retired June 2007 from Menzies and I'm now a consultant. Currently working on a ground handling project for Tiger Airways in Singapore. Then maybe off to Iraq, or wherever else I can keep busy! Hello to all old BCAL friends. please drop a line. Well done David. great job!
Karen Wardle
I just happened to look up BCAL and found this whole web site on it. I worked as a hostie from '76-'79. They were really great days. Shared a house in Balcombe Road with a couple of hosties from BCAL, Dan-Air, and Laker. I also did some advertising work. Was Miss December on one calendar. We had a really great time shooting for it in Scotland in this huge purple van that used to draw the crowds as they thought we were a rock group. Probably acted just as debauched as one!! I am still in the flying world as I am married to a pilot who works for Air Mauritius. If anyone remembers me please drop me a line.
Debbie Ware (Nee Radford)
The best airline ever. Worked for BCAL from 1977 to 1988 in Reservations at Gatwick and the P.T.A department at Gatwick until the take over. Went to live in Australia for 5 years, then decided to come back to Zambia. Would be great to hear from people I worked with in Caledonian House - Gatwick Airport. Very sad to hear the news regarding the death of Sir Adam Thompson
Neil Warringer
Pleased to have found this site, a good idea. The ex BCAL fraternity in Bahrain is now much reduced but a few stalwarts remain from Pax Services plus myself. Good to see who has surfed in and are contactable Site improves all the time. Just an update on e mail address. Moved to GF at beginning of this year from CAA Bahrain.Nice to be back in an airline but perhaps not at exactly this time. Good luck to all the Golden Lions out there. Have now retired from Gulf Air, I did my forty years in the business, half of them with BCAL and that remains the highlight of everything I did in aviation. All the best with the site
Robbie Wass
Lovely site, and so many friends. Yes I'm still alive and so is Millsie, Big G, (visited Rothesay to see him last summer) Frank BRADSHAW, Jack MULLEN Reggie GODDARD ETC,ETC ETC. How did I find the site? Two names only making a noise - as they always used to! Jackson & Youtan, of course. Try it and see! Anyone coming through this old SilverCity/BUA/BCAL outpost, GNA we loved you, let me know. Robbie.
Brian Wassell
I worked at LGW from June 1968 - Nov 2003 in a/c engineering with your father, Ron. Very interested in a reunion.
Bob Waterfield
Hello to all ex BCAL colleagues. Still hanging on with BA at LHR. Love to hear from any ex colleagues
John Watkins
Spent nine very happy years flying with B-CAL on the BAC1-11, B707 and DC-10 between 1979 and 1988.
Andrew Watt
I worked on check in and the ticket desk at Gatwick from 1972-1975 when I moved to the BCAL town office in Amsterdam. I'm still in Holland after almost 27 years working now for B.A. but my happiest memories are of those 3 years working for BCAL at Gatwick. If there is anyone who still remembers me it would be great to hear from them.
David Watt
I have just discovered the site and have seen some very familiar faces. I used to be BCal's man in the northern shires covering Yorkshire/Humberside/Lincs. I regret that I did not bring flat cap and whippet when visiting LGW as some people seemed to expect. Let me know if their will be a reunion and obviously would love to hear from any body in the interim. Just for the record the Manto based staff ie Jack Mullen, Frank Bradshaw, David Watt, Ken Bromfield were still alive and kicking at our last some what liquid meeting !
Alan and Deanna West
I joined BUA in 1968 on the Ticket Desk and saw in (nearly BOAC!) Caledonian /BUA and B.Cal. I Met Deanna Vanhouse (Deanna was in LGW Coupon Control at the time) and she became Mrs West in 1976. I Moved to Traffic Services and then Agency & Interline and after a short stay with BA, joined IATA in 1988. Deanna went on to work in Passenger Services Recruitment and left B.Cal to be an Estate Agent in 1980. We left West Sussex 2 years ago and are now both retired to a small village in Wiltshire enjoying the rural life. Our time with B.Cal was great and we still fondly remember the good times we had and the friends & acquaintances we made. May the memories endure and best wishes to all!
John West A short time with BCAL towards the end.
Michael West
Former BCAL Account Executive in Miami 82-88-great site, brings back good memories of a great airline and a great bunch of people to work with
Robin West
I joined the BUA Traffic department on 6th April 1970 and subsequently worked in Service Control and Flight Watch. Great Times! In later years I was an RDC then ADM. I stayed on with BA for a while after the merger but have been with Virgin Atlantic since March 1991. A great Website. Good to see so many familiar names.
Jack Whetter
My name is Carol, Jack's daughter. He was a Flight Engineer with British Caledonian, and he died in an accident at work on 25th September 1969, whilst inflating an aircraft tyre. It is great to look through all the entries on the page, and see what a happy bunch of people you all seem to be. Does anyone remember my Father ? It would be nice to hear from you. I know his job was practically his life and he was never happier than when at work. Carol can be contacted by email click here
Yvonne White (then Simpson, now Adams)
I originally put details on this fabulous site some time ago and have corresponded with many dear, dear friends (I love you all darlings), but I was just scrolling through (as you do) and read an entry by 'Carl' who says BCAL/British Caledonian was the best Airline ever.....I agree that the second 'Caledonian Airways' was just British Airways stealing the Rampant Lion and sticking it on the tail of their British Airtours planes and taking the name of Caledonian Airways in vain.....BUT, my dears, the only and original Caledonian Airways, which is the company most people are talking about, sprung to life in the very early sixties and NOTHING, but nothing has, or ever will, replace it. You probably did enjoy your life with British Caledonian, but remember....without an original you cannot have a copy, and I was fortunate enough to be part of that original. No offence meant and I hope none taken.
Barry Whitford
I have flown with b-cal several times and as I child I would be excited going to Gatwick to get on a b-cal flight as it was a great event and I wish b.a had left it alone as the destroy all they touch. maybe one day B-Cal could make a come back
Mark Whiting
I had the privilege to fly for the airline others wanted to emulate but couldn't. That was down to the people who worked for BCal. The number of entries which have been posted seem to bear testimony to the fact that at the time, BCal was the envy of the airline world. Having spent 7 years with the airline as Cabin Crew and to contrast that with the subsequent 11 spent with BA, the fact that so much more of the BCal experience is preserved in my grey matter than the latter tells me what a special, special company it was for which to operate - work would just be the wrong word in this context. As Russ Gowen says, some great names appear here and others come to mind, along with memories of some of the outstanding trips we undertook. I was also very sorry to read and to hear of Phil Sinnott's passing. Phil was a top man, colleague and occasional fellow glass emptier!
Some say...I look back with rose tinted specs...others that memory can be selective....All I know is BCal was the best. Period! (With apologies to The Stig & Top Gear!!)
Steve Whiting
Great site. Had 2 good years with BCAL Comms Dept. Also had several BCAL crews round for bbqs and a few sid and cokes here in Jeddah. Hello to anyone who can remember me
Chris Whittle
Congratulations on the site! I went to St Clement Danes to pay tribute to Sir Adam and meet with old friends. I was proud to work with Sir Adam and his airline from 1981 until the end. Greatly missed.
Collin Williams
I was employed by Transair in March 1959 as an aircraft electrician and continued my unbroken service until 1989 by which time B-CAL and its predecessor's had been taken over by BA. B-CAL will always remain as the ultimate favourite and Adam Thompson commanded the respect to help endorse the pride that I have to be privileged as being part of this special Airline.
David Williams
Joining Caledonian, then Caledonian/BUA, then BCAL, then BA ,31 years has flown !!! long time no speak.
Jack Williams
I joined British United Airways (BUA) a few days before Glasgow (Abbotsinch) Airport opened in 1966 on coupon/ramp and load control duties before transferring to Edinburgh Airport in 1967 with a view to set up a cargo operation in 1968. By 1971, as Cargo Supervisor, when the company became British Caledonian Airways (BCAL), was heavily involved in the cargo and mail operation, including the setting up and operation of the nightly ‘Mailjet’ service, until the cargo section closed in 1984 and was transferred to a similar position at Glasgow Airport.
After the ‘merger’ in 1988 joined British Airways Cargo as a cargo agent in the warehouse. In 1993, became Business Information Executive, having been involved in attempting to gain BSI 5750 accreditation. 1999 saw the role changing to Business Manager and then in 2000 took on the role of Acting Customer Service Manager which was confirmed in 2001 as Customer Service Manager Scotland (British Airways World Cargo) which developed to my final position of Operations Manager Scotland (British Airways Regional Cargo). I took early retirement on 31st August 2003 and still miss the airline and its friendly staff.
Jim Williams
I started at Croydon in 1957,moved to lgw in 58 the time with Transair, BUA then BCAL have got to be the best years I have had in the aircraft industry. Unfortunately once BA took over it went downhill very fast I never thought I would be glad to retire.
Pete Williams
I was a tug driver on BCal-BA from 1978-2001. I look forward to a reunion.
Grahame Williamson
I worked for BCal from 1979 to 1988 in Engineering, Hangar Line 1 & 2. I was a regular player for British Caledonian RFUC, I was also Captain & Coach for one of the most successful seasons that the club ever had. The France airline UTA did not take too well being beaten for the first time on home soil. Hello to all my friends who remember me, what a great time we had. I retired early and I am now living in Tenerife. Great people everyone!!!!! Special mention to Doug Bennett (My Best Man), Brian Parker, Ron Butt, Colin Lowes, John Rooke Stevie Gurton, John Faulkner and others too numerous to mention. As I said your all great people.
Janet Willis (Bristow)
I joined Caledonian/BUA in March 1970 and stayed in Reservations until October 1978 for the birth of my first child. I married Bob Willis in June 1973, who worked as a Purser on 707's/DC10's and 747's, he continued on with BA and worked as a CSD on 747's and 777's out of LGW. We were married for 34 years and it is with great sadness that I have to tell everyone who knew my lovely husband Robert Willis (Purser on DC10's and 747's with BCAL) that he died in September 2007, suddenly from a heart attack.
Barbara Wilson now Armstrong
Great memories---great times ---great people---who all can remember "EVERYBODY HAPPY....?" from big GM, and the ever energetic Rita!
Chris and Anne Winckworth
What a great web site. the superb pictures bring back the nostalgia of working for a great company. Anne and I were both in Passenger Services LGW (I was a Ticket Desk Supervisor, Anne was an Asst. Supervisor on Check-in). I am now with BA at LHR (Waterside)
Anna Wood (now Webber)
What a fantastic site and I recognise a few names but would photographs would be great. Flew from 1979 to 1982 and now live and work in Canterbury. Would love to hear from some old friends and still see Lesley Armitage (Wood) and Maureen Mahon (now Dennis). Have some wonderful memories of great people, luxury hotels and fascinating countries.
John Wood
BCAL Cargo LGW, 10 years to 1988. Hi to anyone who knows me.
Nigel Woodall
Nice idea, well done. Served with B-Cal 1982 to 1988, mainly in the hangars on base maintenance.
Reg Woodcock
I have just discovered the site! I joined BUA in 1962 as a fitter working on DC6, Viscount, Britannia, and all the other aircraft that sported the Golden Lion and the A320 in that horrible blue, ending up as a supervisor on the ramp at LGW. I remember many of the names in the 'crewroom'. BCAL was the Best in world and BA will never match it.
Caroline "Carrie" Woodward
I joined BCAL in Sussex House in 1976 as a junior sales ledger clerk, my boss was Richard "Dick" Bonner, Margary Dutton was my supervisor and I worked with Sue ??, Audrey? ? Chris Spurgeon, Sue and I used to have a thing about blue labels (silly girly thing), I left BCAL in 1980 (ish) and then rejoined in 1984 in the Tariff Publications dept working with Sue Manvell. Then went to work with Laura Baker (Barclay), Sarah Champion, Angela? Deirdre Drewitt, Tina? Liz Perrin (Staff Travel), Iris Whitehead, Karen? and Alan West. I left in 1988 and joined Gatwick Hilton after the BA takeover. Where are you all now, it would be great to hear from you. Lovely to find this website. I now work in Brighton at firm of accountants.
Seona Wooley (now Craig)
I joined BUA in 1964 as a s/h typist to John Byrne, the then 'Traffic Manager' and after about 6 months I went over to 'Engineering to 'Smithie' - got fed up with him chasing me around the office - no, not really, but anyways moved up to the terminal after that on Check-In and from then on worked at VAT and in Reservations and was also a Training Officer.
Ian Wollen
I was a F/O on 1-11s for several years before being made redundant (!) and joining Danair. Would be delighted if anyone seeing this and remembering me e-mailed me. All best wishes for your super web page - v nostalgic!!!! I was told about you by Jean Lyon (nee Baxter)
Janet Wolofski I worked for B-Cal in Houston back in 1982 in the reservations office
Richard Wright
Well I got here in the end….I worked for BCAL between 76 and 87. Originally joined Golden Lion Travel, eventually transferred to Cargo Sales, then UK Domestic Routes and UK/European Routes. Left just before the takeover to work for Continental/AMI at LGW. Set up a cargo GSA operation in 91. The business was sold last year and I was lucky enough to be able to retire. I gained my PPL 5 years ago at Shoreham with Sussex Flying Club - CFI is James Crabbe who some of you will recall from BR/BCAL . Am now part owner of a TB10 based at Goodwood, along with Peter Atkin who is also ex BCAL ( Assistant Co. Secretary ). If any old colleagues see this - or want lunch in Le Touquet ?! - do please get in touch.
Chris Yardley
Still enjoy flying (now with Thomas Cook Airlines) but to try to compare any airline with BCAL would be impossible. Thank you BCAL, Thank you Sir Adam & thank you to all of my ex colleagues
Jeff Youtan
Started with BCAL in 1972 with posting to Seychelles. Lucky me! From then until 1984 various overseas postings and time at H.O. at Gatwick. Now have a business travel company in Horsham together with Ray Jackson who some of you may remember. Please get in touch - love to hear from old friends and colleagues.
John Zareba
Joined BCAL check-in at LGW in 1974 and again in 1975 after being laid off for a few months. In 1978 I joined the ticket desk where I spent most of my time except for a spell at T1 LHR (1982-1986) working for the BCAL transfer unit (at the other end of AIRLINK -helicopter transfer LHR-LGW-) where there was a wonderful small team of people under Peter Sawyer and Lana Mitchell. The growth of BCAL kept me and all of my colleagues well on our toes at the LGW ticket counter with technical advances all the time. I was involved in a small team organizing the "Door-to-Door" cars which BCAL had introduced run by the ticket desk!, I don't know how Cherry Jackson managed as there was a busy sales desk and now this to run... I had started a photo gallery (mostly of colleagues) on one of our back-room notice boards which caught on. When I realized with sadness that BCAL was to be no more, I prepared a little album with some added memorabilia. It was done, as one would do, to remember the airline which looked after me so well and all the people who made it. The memorial service for Sir Adam on September the 5th 2000 was a tremendous ceremony, moving, and fitting to the man who started it all.
I joined BCAL in Houston in 1981, relocated to Gatwick in 1985 and stayed until 1991. I'm now back in Houston, it's great to see this tribute, and to see names I remember. Great job. Look forward to hearing from anyone who remembers me.
Lex van der Pauw
Great site and nice to see some old names! Be nice to see a few more Cabin Crew names from 'May 77 onwards. Any Cabin Crew reunions in the offing? A great tribute to Sir Adam. If you remember me -mail me!
James F Vaughn Sacked by Horace Cox in 1981, though I still have B-Cal blood in my veins.
Mike Vaughan
It is with sadness we learn that Captain Mike Vaughan recently passed away. A service was held at Tunbridge Wells Crematorium on Friday 19th March. Our sympathies to Mike's family and friends
Alain VINCENS
I worked with BCAL CDG 1977-1983. Fantastic days in a fighting-spirit airline. Have worked since with SN, BA (of which I got cured rapidly!), now with Air Littoral as a Mgr Ground Handling Contracts. Good news is that the French Golden Lions have regular outings....keeps the spirit on! anyone wishing to contact me is welcome.
Katy Wadwell (nee Kirkham)
I joined B-cal in1981 as a summer temp and stayed until we merged with BA! I loved every minute, such wonderful times and people too. I worked as ground staff on checkin and the helicopter. Was lucky enough to work in DXB during the take over. Travelled the world with the best airline ever. Love the site its fab, just like the airline was.
Hugh Waghorn (from Tom Waghorn) Updated email
If anyone knew my Father, Hugh Waghorn and wants to chat with him, please click the link.
Mike Walder
Joined BUA in 1969 in Load control , onto Service control (Redcap) finally Training dept, prior to the 'oil crisis' and redundancy in 1974 . Met and Married Diane nee Jeffs who also worked in BCAL load control, we are still together after 27 years .Recently met up again with old Load control mates Tom Crossman and Ray Bridgeman . Still miss the buzz of those days after all this time .Would like to hear from any one else from that time
Lyndsey Walker (nee Robinson)
Flew between 1971-1982 and then went off to Bahrain after marrying a Gulfair pilot I picked up on a beach there!
Best days of my life ever - it will never be the same. Still in regular touch with Beryl Hulme, Kathy Acton amongst others.
Would love to hear from anyone that flew with me!
Angela Waller (nee Austin)
I was never actually a crew member if British Caledonian, though I was with the parent airlines of BCal for some years. I joined Hunting-Clan on 20th May 1957, and left (by which time it had become British United Airways) on 29th June 1962. I had a wonderful time for all those years. Since then I've lived and worked around the world -- Libya (I met and married my American husband while working in Libya in 1966 and we often flew BCal in and out of Libya for some years), California, Texas, Canada I always try to get to the British United biennial reunion. I've just fulfilled a near lifelong ambition -- my first novel has been published! It was launched on 7th February 2009, called "The Snows of Yorkshire" and its doing well.
My next book is non-fiction and is called Before There Were Trolley Dollies and it was published on 3rd July 2009 and the 'info' on the back reads as follows: "Angela Waller, who was an air hostess in the 1950s and 1960s, when it was considered a glamorous and highly sought after job, tells everything you ever wanted to know about what went on in that golden age of passenger flying. In this fascinating book, she shares her experiences and tells stories from the hilarious to the harrowing, the factual to the funny, about the famous and the gossip. And she tells how very different things were, back in those says before there were trolley dollies...."
Please see my website: www.angelawaller.co.uk I'd be happy for anyone I knew when I was flying to get in touch with me through here or through my website.
Mike Wallis
Moved from Air Charter to BUA in 1960 then progressed to BCAL and finally BA, for two years.Originally based at Southend I flew the B170, DC4, Carvair and DC6. Then to Gatwick to fly the BAC 1-11, B707, DC10 and the B747 100/200. Had a wonderfull time in both BUA and BCAL and have many fond memories of all those I worked with. Retired (forcibly) by BA in 1990 I have since been living the life of a country yokel in darkest East Sussex. My best regards to anyone who remembers me.
Trevor Warburton
Joined BUA in 1960 as a Junior Airframe Fitter. Stayed 27 years. Last two jobs, VP SW USA Atlanta, before that GM Ground Ops Gatwick. I attended Sir Adam's memorial in London. I was working in Macau, MD of joint venture ground handling co...part of Menzies Aviation Group, the is CEO Peter Smith ex BCAL Marketing Director, David Coltman is on our Board and Phil Bowell with us in Bahrain. I retired June 2007 from Menzies and I'm now a consultant. Currently working on a ground handling project for Tiger Airways in Singapore. Then maybe off to Iraq, or wherever else I can keep busy! Hello to all old BCAL friends. please drop a line. Well done David. great job!
Karen Wardle
I just happened to look up BCAL and found this whole web site on it. I worked as a hostie from '76-'79. They were really great days. Shared a house in Balcombe Road with a couple of hosties from BCAL, Dan-Air, and Laker. I also did some advertising work. Was Miss December on one calendar. We had a really great time shooting for it in Scotland in this huge purple van that used to draw the crowds as they thought we were a rock group. Probably acted just as debauched as one!! I am still in the flying world as I am married to a pilot who works for Air Mauritius. If anyone remembers me please drop me a line.
Debbie Ware (Nee Radford)
The best airline ever. Worked for BCAL from 1977 to 1988 in Reservations at Gatwick and the P.T.A department at Gatwick until the take over. Went to live in Australia for 5 years, then decided to come back to Zambia. Would be great to hear from people I worked with in Caledonian House - Gatwick Airport. Very sad to hear the news regarding the death of Sir Adam Thompson
Neil Warringer
Pleased to have found this site, a good idea. The ex BCAL fraternity in Bahrain is now much reduced but a few stalwarts remain from Pax Services plus myself. Good to see who has surfed in and are contactable Site improves all the time. Just an update on e mail address. Moved to GF at beginning of this year from CAA Bahrain.Nice to be back in an airline but perhaps not at exactly this time. Good luck to all the Golden Lions out there. Have now retired from Gulf Air, I did my forty years in the business, half of them with BCAL and that remains the highlight of everything I did in aviation. All the best with the site
Robbie Wass
Lovely site, and so many friends. Yes I'm still alive and so is Millsie, Big G, (visited Rothesay to see him last summer) Frank BRADSHAW, Jack MULLEN Reggie GODDARD ETC,ETC ETC. How did I find the site? Two names only making a noise - as they always used to! Jackson & Youtan, of course. Try it and see! Anyone coming through this old SilverCity/BUA/BCAL outpost, GNA we loved you, let me know. Robbie.
Brian Wassell
I worked at LGW from June 1968 - Nov 2003 in a/c engineering with your father, Ron. Very interested in a reunion.
Bob Waterfield
Hello to all ex BCAL colleagues. Still hanging on with BA at LHR. Love to hear from any ex colleagues
John Watkins
Spent nine very happy years flying with B-CAL on the BAC1-11, B707 and DC-10 between 1979 and 1988.
Andrew Watt
I worked on check in and the ticket desk at Gatwick from 1972-1975 when I moved to the BCAL town office in Amsterdam. I'm still in Holland after almost 27 years working now for B.A. but my happiest memories are of those 3 years working for BCAL at Gatwick. If there is anyone who still remembers me it would be great to hear from them.
David Watt
I have just discovered the site and have seen some very familiar faces. I used to be BCal's man in the northern shires covering Yorkshire/Humberside/Lincs. I regret that I did not bring flat cap and whippet when visiting LGW as some people seemed to expect. Let me know if their will be a reunion and obviously would love to hear from any body in the interim. Just for the record the Manto based staff ie Jack Mullen, Frank Bradshaw, David Watt, Ken Bromfield were still alive and kicking at our last some what liquid meeting !
Alan and Deanna West
I joined BUA in 1968 on the Ticket Desk and saw in (nearly BOAC!) Caledonian /BUA and B.Cal. I Met Deanna Vanhouse (Deanna was in LGW Coupon Control at the time) and she became Mrs West in 1976. I Moved to Traffic Services and then Agency & Interline and after a short stay with BA, joined IATA in 1988. Deanna went on to work in Passenger Services Recruitment and left B.Cal to be an Estate Agent in 1980. We left West Sussex 2 years ago and are now both retired to a small village in Wiltshire enjoying the rural life. Our time with B.Cal was great and we still fondly remember the good times we had and the friends & acquaintances we made. May the memories endure and best wishes to all!
John West A short time with BCAL towards the end.
Michael West
Former BCAL Account Executive in Miami 82-88-great site, brings back good memories of a great airline and a great bunch of people to work with
Robin West
I joined the BUA Traffic department on 6th April 1970 and subsequently worked in Service Control and Flight Watch. Great Times! In later years I was an RDC then ADM. I stayed on with BA for a while after the merger but have been with Virgin Atlantic since March 1991. A great Website. Good to see so many familiar names.
Jack Whetter
My name is Carol, Jack's daughter. He was a Flight Engineer with British Caledonian, and he died in an accident at work on 25th September 1969, whilst inflating an aircraft tyre. It is great to look through all the entries on the page, and see what a happy bunch of people you all seem to be. Does anyone remember my Father ? It would be nice to hear from you. I know his job was practically his life and he was never happier than when at work. Carol can be contacted by email click here
Yvonne White (then Simpson, now Adams)
I originally put details on this fabulous site some time ago and have corresponded with many dear, dear friends (I love you all darlings), but I was just scrolling through (as you do) and read an entry by 'Carl' who says BCAL/British Caledonian was the best Airline ever.....I agree that the second 'Caledonian Airways' was just British Airways stealing the Rampant Lion and sticking it on the tail of their British Airtours planes and taking the name of Caledonian Airways in vain.....BUT, my dears, the only and original Caledonian Airways, which is the company most people are talking about, sprung to life in the very early sixties and NOTHING, but nothing has, or ever will, replace it. You probably did enjoy your life with British Caledonian, but remember....without an original you cannot have a copy, and I was fortunate enough to be part of that original. No offence meant and I hope none taken.
Barry Whitford
I have flown with b-cal several times and as I child I would be excited going to Gatwick to get on a b-cal flight as it was a great event and I wish b.a had left it alone as the destroy all they touch. maybe one day B-Cal could make a come back
Mark Whiting
I had the privilege to fly for the airline others wanted to emulate but couldn't. That was down to the people who worked for BCal. The number of entries which have been posted seem to bear testimony to the fact that at the time, BCal was the envy of the airline world. Having spent 7 years with the airline as Cabin Crew and to contrast that with the subsequent 11 spent with BA, the fact that so much more of the BCal experience is preserved in my grey matter than the latter tells me what a special, special company it was for which to operate - work would just be the wrong word in this context. As Russ Gowen says, some great names appear here and others come to mind, along with memories of some of the outstanding trips we undertook. I was also very sorry to read and to hear of Phil Sinnott's passing. Phil was a top man, colleague and occasional fellow glass emptier!
Some say...I look back with rose tinted specs...others that memory can be selective....All I know is BCal was the best. Period! (With apologies to The Stig & Top Gear!!)
Steve Whiting
Great site. Had 2 good years with BCAL Comms Dept. Also had several BCAL crews round for bbqs and a few sid and cokes here in Jeddah. Hello to anyone who can remember me
Chris Whittle
Congratulations on the site! I went to St Clement Danes to pay tribute to Sir Adam and meet with old friends. I was proud to work with Sir Adam and his airline from 1981 until the end. Greatly missed.
Collin Williams
I was employed by Transair in March 1959 as an aircraft electrician and continued my unbroken service until 1989 by which time B-CAL and its predecessor's had been taken over by BA. B-CAL will always remain as the ultimate favourite and Adam Thompson commanded the respect to help endorse the pride that I have to be privileged as being part of this special Airline.
David Williams
Joining Caledonian, then Caledonian/BUA, then BCAL, then BA ,31 years has flown !!! long time no speak.
Jack Williams
I joined British United Airways (BUA) a few days before Glasgow (Abbotsinch) Airport opened in 1966 on coupon/ramp and load control duties before transferring to Edinburgh Airport in 1967 with a view to set up a cargo operation in 1968. By 1971, as Cargo Supervisor, when the company became British Caledonian Airways (BCAL), was heavily involved in the cargo and mail operation, including the setting up and operation of the nightly ‘Mailjet’ service, until the cargo section closed in 1984 and was transferred to a similar position at Glasgow Airport.
After the ‘merger’ in 1988 joined British Airways Cargo as a cargo agent in the warehouse. In 1993, became Business Information Executive, having been involved in attempting to gain BSI 5750 accreditation. 1999 saw the role changing to Business Manager and then in 2000 took on the role of Acting Customer Service Manager which was confirmed in 2001 as Customer Service Manager Scotland (British Airways World Cargo) which developed to my final position of Operations Manager Scotland (British Airways Regional Cargo). I took early retirement on 31st August 2003 and still miss the airline and its friendly staff.
Jim Williams
I started at Croydon in 1957,moved to lgw in 58 the time with Transair, BUA then BCAL have got to be the best years I have had in the aircraft industry. Unfortunately once BA took over it went downhill very fast I never thought I would be glad to retire.
Pete Williams
I was a tug driver on BCal-BA from 1978-2001. I look forward to a reunion.
Grahame Williamson
I worked for BCal from 1979 to 1988 in Engineering, Hangar Line 1 & 2. I was a regular player for British Caledonian RFUC, I was also Captain & Coach for one of the most successful seasons that the club ever had. The France airline UTA did not take too well being beaten for the first time on home soil. Hello to all my friends who remember me, what a great time we had. I retired early and I am now living in Tenerife. Great people everyone!!!!! Special mention to Doug Bennett (My Best Man), Brian Parker, Ron Butt, Colin Lowes, John Rooke Stevie Gurton, John Faulkner and others too numerous to mention. As I said your all great people.
Janet Willis (Bristow)
I joined Caledonian/BUA in March 1970 and stayed in Reservations until October 1978 for the birth of my first child. I married Bob Willis in June 1973, who worked as a Purser on 707's/DC10's and 747's, he continued on with BA and worked as a CSD on 747's and 777's out of LGW. We were married for 34 years and it is with great sadness that I have to tell everyone who knew my lovely husband Robert Willis (Purser on DC10's and 747's with BCAL) that he died in September 2007, suddenly from a heart attack.
Barbara Wilson now Armstrong
Great memories---great times ---great people---who all can remember "EVERYBODY HAPPY....?" from big GM, and the ever energetic Rita!
Chris and Anne Winckworth
What a great web site. the superb pictures bring back the nostalgia of working for a great company. Anne and I were both in Passenger Services LGW (I was a Ticket Desk Supervisor, Anne was an Asst. Supervisor on Check-in). I am now with BA at LHR (Waterside)
Anna Wood (now Webber)
What a fantastic site and I recognise a few names but would photographs would be great. Flew from 1979 to 1982 and now live and work in Canterbury. Would love to hear from some old friends and still see Lesley Armitage (Wood) and Maureen Mahon (now Dennis). Have some wonderful memories of great people, luxury hotels and fascinating countries.
John Wood
BCAL Cargo LGW, 10 years to 1988. Hi to anyone who knows me.
Nigel Woodall
Nice idea, well done. Served with B-Cal 1982 to 1988, mainly in the hangars on base maintenance.
Reg Woodcock
I have just discovered the site! I joined BUA in 1962 as a fitter working on DC6, Viscount, Britannia, and all the other aircraft that sported the Golden Lion and the A320 in that horrible blue, ending up as a supervisor on the ramp at LGW. I remember many of the names in the 'crewroom'. BCAL was the Best in world and BA will never match it.
Caroline "Carrie" Woodward
I joined BCAL in Sussex House in 1976 as a junior sales ledger clerk, my boss was Richard "Dick" Bonner, Margary Dutton was my supervisor and I worked with Sue ??, Audrey? ? Chris Spurgeon, Sue and I used to have a thing about blue labels (silly girly thing), I left BCAL in 1980 (ish) and then rejoined in 1984 in the Tariff Publications dept working with Sue Manvell. Then went to work with Laura Baker (Barclay), Sarah Champion, Angela? Deirdre Drewitt, Tina? Liz Perrin (Staff Travel), Iris Whitehead, Karen? and Alan West. I left in 1988 and joined Gatwick Hilton after the BA takeover. Where are you all now, it would be great to hear from you. Lovely to find this website. I now work in Brighton at firm of accountants.
Seona Wooley (now Craig)
I joined BUA in 1964 as a s/h typist to John Byrne, the then 'Traffic Manager' and after about 6 months I went over to 'Engineering to 'Smithie' - got fed up with him chasing me around the office - no, not really, but anyways moved up to the terminal after that on Check-In and from then on worked at VAT and in Reservations and was also a Training Officer.
Ian Wollen
I was a F/O on 1-11s for several years before being made redundant (!) and joining Danair. Would be delighted if anyone seeing this and remembering me e-mailed me. All best wishes for your super web page - v nostalgic!!!! I was told about you by Jean Lyon (nee Baxter)
Janet Wolofski I worked for B-Cal in Houston back in 1982 in the reservations office
Richard Wright
Well I got here in the end….I worked for BCAL between 76 and 87. Originally joined Golden Lion Travel, eventually transferred to Cargo Sales, then UK Domestic Routes and UK/European Routes. Left just before the takeover to work for Continental/AMI at LGW. Set up a cargo GSA operation in 91. The business was sold last year and I was lucky enough to be able to retire. I gained my PPL 5 years ago at Shoreham with Sussex Flying Club - CFI is James Crabbe who some of you will recall from BR/BCAL . Am now part owner of a TB10 based at Goodwood, along with Peter Atkin who is also ex BCAL ( Assistant Co. Secretary ). If any old colleagues see this - or want lunch in Le Touquet ?! - do please get in touch.
Chris Yardley
Still enjoy flying (now with Thomas Cook Airlines) but to try to compare any airline with BCAL would be impossible. Thank you BCAL, Thank you Sir Adam & thank you to all of my ex colleagues
Jeff Youtan
Started with BCAL in 1972 with posting to Seychelles. Lucky me! From then until 1984 various overseas postings and time at H.O. at Gatwick. Now have a business travel company in Horsham together with Ray Jackson who some of you may remember. Please get in touch - love to hear from old friends and colleagues.
John Zareba
Joined BCAL check-in at LGW in 1974 and again in 1975 after being laid off for a few months. In 1978 I joined the ticket desk where I spent most of my time except for a spell at T1 LHR (1982-1986) working for the BCAL transfer unit (at the other end of AIRLINK -helicopter transfer LHR-LGW-) where there was a wonderful small team of people under Peter Sawyer and Lana Mitchell. The growth of BCAL kept me and all of my colleagues well on our toes at the LGW ticket counter with technical advances all the time. I was involved in a small team organizing the "Door-to-Door" cars which BCAL had introduced run by the ticket desk!, I don't know how Cherry Jackson managed as there was a busy sales desk and now this to run... I had started a photo gallery (mostly of colleagues) on one of our back-room notice boards which caught on. When I realized with sadness that BCAL was to be no more, I prepared a little album with some added memorabilia. It was done, as one would do, to remember the airline which looked after me so well and all the people who made it. The memorial service for Sir Adam on September the 5th 2000 was a tremendous ceremony, moving, and fitting to the man who started it all.
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Updated - 19th April 2010
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