The UK arm of budget airline Norwegian has joined industry body Airlines UK.
The move comes as Europe’s third largest low-cost carrier prepares to add more low-cost long-haul routes from the UK.
Norwegian becomes the 12th member of the organisation alongside British Airways, easyJet, Flybe, Jet2.com, Monarch, Thomas Cook, Thomson Airways, Titan Airways, Virgin Atlantic and cargo carriers CargoLogicAir and DHL.
Airlines UK chief executive, Tim Alderslade, said: “Norwegian are fast establishing a major presence in the UK, with current operations at four airports and exciting plans for future growth.
“As the association that advocates on behalf of UK-registered airlines we were keen to work more closely together with Norwegian UK to strengthen our campaigning voice and ensure that we are best representing the sector in discussions with governments and regulators.
“There is a huge amount going on at the moment – from ensuring that the Brexit negotiations between the UK and EU safeguard market access for airlines to campaigning for lower rates of taxation on our industry and working with government to produce an aviation strategy that promotes sustainable, long-term growth across the whole of the country.
“Partnering with Norwegian UK will better enable us to do this and we look forward to working with them over the months and years ahead.”
Norwegian UK chief operating officer, Lennart Ceder, said: “Airlines UK has a crucial role in shaping the thriving British aviation industry so as Norwegian continues its rapid UK growth, we are delighted to become members.
“Norwegian believes not just in healthy competition but also healthy respect between airlines so we look forward to uniting with other UK carriers to tackle the many challenges and opportunities we all face together.”