5 years ago... BA moves to high-tech cargo centre

While the clothes manufacturer merely wanted to save time unpacking boxes, counting inventory and repacking them to send out, paranoid consumers grew concerned that the company may monitor them at all times after sale.

Gillette and Marks & Spencer have also come in for criticism following proposed implantations of RFID technology a full five years after BA announced this system.

BA continues to pioneer new technology for improving in-house operations, as well as improving the customer experience as seen with the introduction of self-service check in facilities.

In an exclusive interview with silicon.com late last year, BA's CIO Paul Coby said: "It is still extremely challenging times for airlines. Fundamentally the role of new technology is key to what we are doing to fight back."

However, not all improvements have been universally popular. Last year the company was forced to defend its swipe card security after the controversial scheme sparked rows among staff and airline bosses.

But the bigger picture is one of increased efficiency and cost savings. The airline intends to save £300m through its commitment to new technology and more effectively managed IT.