Alfie the pug with BA crew Helena

Airline introduces 'Paws & Relax" - an in-flight entertainment channel featuring footage of cats and dogs

BA's new in-flight entertainment channel, dedicated to showing cute footage of cats, kittens, dogs and puppies, is due to launch next month on British Airways' long-haul flights.

The airline hopes that the channel, entitled Paws & Relax, will provide entertaining footage, benefit pasengers' overall well-being and relaxation, and improve levels of concentration.

British Airways’ in-flight entertainment manager, Richard D’Cruze, said: “It might sound barking, but there’s lots of research to suggest that watching pets can enhance overall wellbeing. We have sniffed out some fantastic content that is cute, comforting and sure to appeal to travellers of all ages.”

The channel is set to feature a number of popular cartoons, documentaries and television shows, including internet sensation Simon's Cat, The Secret Life of Cats and America's Cutest Dog.

British Airways has teamed up with experts at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home for insight into the benefits of pet ownership. In a trailer to launch the channel, the airline features some of its pets looking for rehoming - including; Alfie the Pug, Sky the Siberian Husky, Angelica the Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross and kittens Karma, Knight and Karis.

Laura Lambert responsible for rehoming & welfare at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home said: “We know that people love watching dogs and cats. They can make you laugh, smile, and cry. They are wonderful companions when you're feeling anxious or just need a lift, and we believe that British Airways’ Paws & Relax channel will be the perfect way for passengers to sit back and relax.”

Paws & Relax can be found in the entertainment section of the airline’s in-flight library from September.

 Images courtesy of British Airways (C) Nick Morrish