The ‘alligator’ was a creative promotional setup by British Airways featuring three models who had been painted on over five hours.

British Airways customers flying from Gatwick this week had to do a double-take at what appeared to be an alligator, more at home in the fresh water of Florida rather than a UK airport, which had appeared on the runway. In reality, what they were seeing was an optical teaser.

The ‘alligator’ was in fact a creative setup featuring three models who had been painstakingly painted on over five hours. The work was executed by specialist artist, Johannes Stoetter, to resemble the large reptile, with the aim of helping the airline to promote a collection of great deals to Florida.

The painting process was captured in a time-lapse video. The brand is offering holidays beginning from £479 per person, which include flights to Orlando as well as accommodation. Also, passengers can hold a flight for up to 72 hours for just five pounds and reserve a break from just £150.

British Airways flies from Gatwick to Orlando 13 times a week and to Tampa seven times a week and from Heathrow to Miami 14 times a week. The airline’s flights include a generous free cabin baggage allowance, free on-line check-in, seat allocation, and complimentary food and drink on board.

“We have some fantastic deals to Florida. We fly to both Tampa and Orlando from Gatwick and to Miami from Heathrow. For those wanting to see some real alligators, one can book an experience through British Airways Holidays and head to the Everglades National Park,” said Adam Daniels, Chief Commercial Officer of British Airways.

During the recent 2015-2016 installation of the prestigious World Branding Awards held at London’s Kensington Palace, British Airways emerged as a winner under the programme’s highly competitive airline (national) category, walking away with the title for a second consecutive year.

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