British Airways was formed in 1974 through the merger of BOAC and British European Airways. However, BOAC and BEA had already started phasing in the new identity by then.

The logo, identity and livery was created by British design firm, Negus & Negus and presented in 1973. Also part of the identity was a part of the Union jack that could be found at the tailfin of the planes. As a result of pressure from BOAC employees, the speedbird that was part of BOAC’s identity was retained and put at the front of the planes, and now used as BA’s aircraft call-sign.