Norwegian launch transatlantic routes from Cork Airport

The new routes, to be operated under Norwegian’s Irish subsidiary, Norwegian Air International (NAI), are part of the airline’s 'plans for continued expansion in the UK and Ireland.' Boston services will commence in May 2016 with 4-5 flights per week, followed by Cork to New York in 2017. A Cork to Barcelona service is planned to launch in May 2016 with 4-5 flights per week. Flights will be served by B737-800 aircraft and the new B737MAX - a series of new generation 737s currently on order. The B737-800 will house 12 business class seats and 146 economy.

“The addition of direct year-round connectivity to North America has long been a target for Cork Airport. We’re delighted that Norwegian will operate Cork Airport’s first transatlantic service. Cork Airport has a robust hinterland with a well-developed industrial base and a fantastic tourism product. We’re sure there will be strong demand for these new transatlantic services from both business and leisure passengers.”

Bjorn Kjos, Chief Executive of Norwegian, launching Gatwick - Boston route Norwegian last year launched the UK’s only low-cost long-haul flights from Gatwick to four US destinations - New York, LA, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Boston.

• Bjorn Kjos, Norwegian CEO, said:

• “Norwegian is leading the way in offering affordable transatlantic travel and with the new generation aircraft we have on order, we now have exciting plans to offer low-cost flights from Cork to Boston in 2016 and Cork to New York in 2017.

“We are delighted to offer a long-awaited service from the U.S. to Cork and the southern parts of Ireland which will create huge business, leisure and tourism opportunities. Our new Cork to Barcelona route is also an exciting addition to our growing network.”