BRITISH AND IRISH LIONS ROAR OFF TO ... Sunday, 27 June 2021 - British Airways welcomed the 37-strong British & Irish Lions squad on board a special charter flight today, as they travelled from Edinburgh to Johannesburg for the start of their eagerly-awaited South African Tour. Following their clash against Japan for The Vodafone Lions 1888 Cup at BT Murrayfield Stadium yesterday, they were greeted with warm words of encouragement by the crew of flight BA9111, including their pilot Captain Richard Allen-Williams, British Airways' Chief Pilot, Training. Enjoying the safety and comfort of a British Airways' 777-300, the players were served with a selection of hot meals and snacks during the 11-hour 30-minute flight to ensure they arrive match fit and ready to take on all-comers.