Norwegian CEO Bjorn Kjos has outlined plans for the low-cost carrier to grow its long-haul service from the UK, saying passengers in the market will be the first to experience cabin upgrades and new aircraft.
The airline will be launching new long-haul routes served by its B787 Dreamliners starting this week, including flights from Gatwick to Buenos Aires from 14 February and direct services to Chicago and Austin in March.
Norwegian has ten new Dreamliners entering its fleet this year, all of which are set to feature the carrier’s expanded 56-seat Premium cabin and will replace the current Gatwick-based Dreamliner fleet. Furthermore, wifi will be rolled out on long-haul aircraft from the end of this year, with plans to offer a free option and a paid-for high-speed upgrade.
Kjos said the airline plans to focus more on business travellers on its long-haul routes with the expansion of its Premium seats, lounge access with Premium tickets and increased frequency on key routes from Gatwick. He also announced Norwegian’s ambitions to offer a triple-daily service between Gatwick and New York.
The UK market will also be the first to see Norwegian’s incoming A321neo LR aircraft, which will enter service from 2020. Kjos said the carrier plans to use the aircraft on its routes from London to the US’s East Coast and Midwest.
Kjos commented: “The UK will be at the heart of our continued global expansion and we remain fully committed to the market.
“With huge global ambitions, we’re confident that the UK can offer Norwegian a springboard to further expansion as we aim to become the long-haul airline of choice for passengers seeking a high-quality service at great value.”
norwegian.com