British European Airways (BEA) was a British airline that operated from 1946 until 1974. It was established to provide domestic and European air services, connecting the United Kingdom with various destinations across Europe. BEA was known for its distinctive branding and played a significant role in the development of air travel in post-war Britain. In 1974, BEA merged with British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) to form British Airways, which became the UK's flagship airline. During its operation, BEA was recognized for its commitment to safety and customer service, contributing to the growth of the aviation industry in Europe.