British Airways will today operate the inaugural flight on its business class-only service from London City to New York via Shannon.

BA's Irish chief executive, Willie Walsh, will be among those using the flight, which will carry just 32 passengers.

The move comes in spite of the global downturn and a steep decline in business- class air traffic.

Mr Walsh said it was important for BA to 'innovate' in the harsh economic climate.

The flights will operate once a day until October 14th, when the service will move to twice daily.

Shannon will be used for refuelling on the journey from London, but not on the return leg.

The length of the runway at London City Airport does not allow the aircraft to take off with a full fuel load.

Passengers will be able to avail of the US customs and immigration pre-clearance service at Shannon.