Norwegian airline is still committed to Cork, says airport

CORK Airport has said it welcomes the re-affirmed commitment of Norwegian Air International to commence transatlantic services from Cork to Boston. once it receives its foreign carrier permit from the US Department of Transportation. 

The airport was responding to the news last night the airline had put its plans for a Cork to Boston route – due to start this summer – on hold.

‘We acknowledge the intensive efforts that have been made by all relevant Irish authorities to date to expedite the approval of Norwegian’s foreign carrier permit and we look forward to the commencement of the first transatlantic route from Cork Airport later this year,’ said Kevin Cullinane, communications manager at the airport.
A Norwegian spokesperson also said: ‘Norwegian are grateful for the huge support we have received from Cork Airport, the Irish authorities and the wider public for our planned new routes. Not only are we fully committed to new transatlantic flights from Cork this year, but we are also looking at options for further expansion in Ireland. We see several interesting route opportunities from Ireland, and look forward to offer both Irish and American customers new routes, more choice and lower fares.’ 

The airline added: ‘Due to continued delays and indecision by the US Department of Transportation, our intention to begin flights from Cork in May is no longer possible but we still intend to start flights as soon as possible this summer. We will continue to fight for our clear and legitimate right for a Foreign Carrier Permit and we welcome any steps by the Irish and European authorities to help resolve this issue. It is clear there is huge support for these routes so we urge the US authorities to put passengers first by finally approving our application.’