It's that time of year when many families are planning the most-dreaded of all journeys with children -- THE LONG PLANE FLIGHT.

To the rescue comes British Airways (800/247-9297) which must have been trained in the ways to thrill kids by Mary Poppins herself!

(Actually, their original News Release claimed that "airline brand managers spent time at a British summer camp to find out what would make the best flight ever.")

BA's World Traveller economy class features more comfortable, contoured seats with footrests (great, even if your kids can't reach them).  Flight attendants will serve children first on double-decker catering trays.  In addition to a travel tips guide for parents, families will receive a Skyflyer Activity pack to help entertain the kids.  A personalized video system has been installed at each seat to offer Disney cartoons and family films. 

BA has also opened a 'World Creche' daycare center at Heathrow's terminal 4 (opposite gate 5) to accommodate 3-9-year-old travelers for a small fee while their parents handle the inevitable hassles of holiday travel.