Low-cost airline eyes Dublin-Bangkok flights

Low-cost carrier Norwegian Air Shuttle is considering launching a Dublin to Bangkok service next year in a move that could make it the first airline to connect the Republic directly with the major tourist hub.

A spokesman for the company, whose long-haul operations are licensed and managed by a subsidiary based in the Republic, confirmed yesterday the airline is considering launching the Dublin-Bangkok service.

He pointed out there is no regular, direct link between the Republic’s capital and the Thai city, but said there does appear to be demand. He added that should the airline decide to go ahead, it is likely it would launch it next year.

Minister for Tourism Leo Varadkar recently said the Government is keen to see airlines developing services to eastern Asia. Norwegian began offering low-cost, long-haul services last year, pricing transatlantic flights at $300-$350 return.

The company is expanding and plans to link locations in the US such as New York and Fort Lauderdale, and Bangkok and other far eastern destinations with London and other centres in northern and western Europe.

Its chief executive, Bjorn Kjos, recently told The Irish Times that modern aircraft technology have made it possible to offer low-cost, long-haul services. Norwegian employs 40 people in offices close to Dublin Airport.