Victorious Team GB Paralympians live it up on first-class flight home from Rio

Paralympians on a flight home from Rio to London (PA)

Team GB’s triumphant Paralympic athletes have returned home in style aboard British Airways’ gold-tipped Victorious 747.

The competitors, who smashed Britain’s previous medal record with a whopping 147 medals (64 gold), can expect a heroes’ welcome at celebration parades in Manchester and London on October 17 and 18.

Massive thank you to @British_Airways for an amazing flight back from Rio #First #BAckSupercharged ?? pic.twitter.com/PFZKE5nRds

— Lucy Shuker (@lucy_shuker) September 20, 2016

Britain’s highly decorated squad join their Olympic counterparts in history, having created the UK’s most successful games outside of their home nation.

We're home! #BAckSupercharged ?? pic.twitter.com/VQV1KJLaz8

— ParalympicsGB (@ParalympicsGB) September 20, 2016

Family and friends gathered at London’s Heathrow airport early on Tuesday morning to welcome home the athletes, who had been treated to Champagne aboard the return flight from Rio.

What a reception off #VictoRIOus #BAckSupercharged @British_Airways #teamphoto pic.twitter.com/Cb2hMLG79x

— Dame Sarah Storey (@DameSarahStorey) September 20, 2016

A personal message from the Queen added to the excitement of their return, saying: “I offer my warmest congratulations to the athletes of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and indeed to the athletes of all Commonwealth countries, for their many successes in Rio de Janeiro.”

Sports Minister Tracey Crouch said: “The achievements of Team GB and ParalympicsGB made the whole country proud so it is only right that we host fitting celebrations to mark their incredible performances in Rio.

“Our athletes are an inspiration to millions and gave us so many fantastic medal moments that will live long in the memory.

Thanks to all the friendly staff abroad! Especially smiley Laurence ? @British_Airways #BAckSupercharged @ali_p87 pic.twitter.com/bIIvnHlWo4

— Hazel Macleod (@babygiraffe42) September 20, 2016

“I know that Manchester – a city with a rich sporting history – and London, with its strong links with the Olympic and Paralympic Games, will host brilliant celebrations that will give the British public a chance to say thank you to our amazing athlete heroes.”

Funny what gold medals can do?? first class baby ?????? pic.twitter.com/x6BipJMFoF

— Will Bayley MBE (@WillBayleytt) September 19, 2016

ParalympicsGB chef de mission Penny Briscoe said: “The ParalympicsGB team have delivered an amazing, awe-inspiring performance in Rio at this Paralympic Games.

Upgrade! Nice one @British_Airways One step closer to home. @lapstar11 @jordannejoyce92 pic.twitter.com/a29tPHiSK3

— Jamie Burdekin (@JamieBurdekin1) September 19, 2016

“We have had the most competitive team at the most competitive Games resulting in second place on the medal table with 147 medals, 64 of those gold.”