Airline Says It Will Continue To Pursue Service To The United States

Norwegian Air International (NAI) said in a statement released Wednesday that its effort to establish service in the U.S. will increase competition and has already created jobs in the United States.

The statement was released in response to the passage Wednesday of a transportation bill in the U.S. House of Representatives which contained an amendment introduced by Reps. Lynn Westmorland (R-GA) and Peter DeFazio (D-OR). That amendment would prevent the DOT from approving Norwegian Air International’s (NAI) foreign air carrier permit application because they say the airline’s operations would contradict the U.S.–EU Air Transport Agreement, which specifically prohibits any efforts to undermine labor standard

"We are disappointed the House legislation includes language attempting to pressure the U.S. Department of Transportation into denying Norwegian Air International's application. As with anything new and innovative, Norwegian expected opposition from entrenched interests, and we will continue undeterred in the pursuit of our goal of serving the United States," the airline said in the statement.

"Norwegian International seeks to offer lower fares to travelers, world-class service on new Boeing 787 Dreamliners, and job creation opportunities through our investment in Boeing aircraft and increased international tourism to U.S. destinations. Norwegian appreciates the support it has received from allies, including three former DOT Secretaries and the hundreds of flight attendants we have hired in the U.S. this year, who share our commitment to growth and competition.

"As a licensed carrier of the European Union, Norwegian meets all the legal, safety and operational requirements to serve the United States – and we fully intend to do so in the near future. The time has passed for the Department of Transportation to approve Norwegian's application."

FMI: www.openourskies.com