British Airways faces criticism after using the Argentine name for the Falkland Islands.
June 11, 202531 ViewsRead Time: 2 minutes
Font Size
16
British Airways sparked widespread controversy after using the Argentine name for the capital of the Falkland Islands, "Porto Argentino," instead of the official British name "Port Stanley," in its in-flight entertainment systems, causing significant outrage in British circles, especially among Falklands War veterans who described the move as "shameful." The Argentine name was displayed on the company's aircraft screens, with the English name "Port Stanley" shown in parentheses below. The company announced an urgent investigation into the incident, stating that the mapping service is managed by an external entity, and they are reviewing the matter with them. Admiral Lord West, former Royal Navy commander and a prominent figure in the Falklands War, expressed his anger, saying: "This is a disgraceful and shameful act. The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory, and 99.9% of its population chose to remain under British sovereignty." He added that the airline's actions were an "unforgivable insult to the people of Port Stanley," accusing British Airways of abandoning its national stance. A company spokesperson told the "Daily Mail": "We appreciate those who brought this issue to our attention. We are currently reviewing it with the map provider we work with," in an attempt to contain the angry reactions. The Falkland Islands, located in the South Atlantic Ocean, have been under British control since 1833, but Argentina still claims sovereignty over them. In 1982, Argentine forces invaded the islands and occupied its capital, leading to a 74-day war that ended in a British victory, with 255 soldiers lost in battle. Despite the defeat, Argentina continues to claim the islands. In 2013, a referendum saw 99.8% of Falkland residents voting to remain under British rule. In 2017, the Islands' Legislative Council voted to change the name of Stanley Port to "Porto Argentino," announcing plans to celebrate "Sovereignty Day" if regained from Argentina. Current Argentine President Javier Milei stated last year that he would not give up the claim to sovereignty over the islands, while also affirming that he does not seek armed conflict with the United Kingdom. The error committed by British Airways comes in a sensitive context linked to a long history of conflict, bringing back the issue of disputed sovereignty over these islands, despite popular votes and the continuous British military presence for almost two centuries.