Norwegian’s first service between the UK and Asia is claimed to be the world’s longest route operated by a low-cost airline.
The 12 hour 45 minute flight from Gatwick to Singapore covers 6,764 miles using a new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
The airline has started operating the route four times a week with one-way fares starting at £149.90 and £699.90 for premium seating with extra legroom.
The Singapore route will be operated by UK subsidiary Norwegian UK ahead of starting flights to Buenos Aires from February 14.
CEO Bjørn Kjos said: “I’m delighted to build upon our popular USA flights and give leisure and business customers more affordable access to Singapore and the Asia-Pacific like never before.
“The 787 Dreamliner has the range to allow us to expand our long-haul services to other parts of the world while keeping fares affordable for all.
“This is just the start of Norwegian’s UK expansion into new markets as we will continue connecting destinations where fares have been too high for too long.”
His comments came just days after Norwegian UK won a foreign carrier permit from US authorities to allow it to expand its long-haul network.
Norwegian UK is based at Gatwick and will use British-registered Dreamliner aircraft and Gatwick-based crew to operate the new services.
Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate said: “Norwegian has raised the bar by introducing the world’s longest low-cost long-haul route between Gatwick and Singapore.
“Singapore is one of the world’s premier destinations and is a significant addition to Gatwick’s 60-strong long-haul route network. Services in both directions are likely to be very popular, both with tourists and business travellers flying between two of the world’s top financial centres.
“It’s such an exciting time for Gatwick as airlines like Norwegian continue the low-cost long-haul revolution and I’m already looking forward to hearing about the next new destination.”
Singapore Tourism Board regional director for Europe, Tan Yen Nee, said: “We are delighted that Singapore is chosen as Norwegian’s first direct route to Asia from the UK.
“Singapore has evolved from a colony to a city with a unique blend of multicultural enclaves, architectural wonders, lush gardens, world-class attractions and diverse culinary experiences, made possible by a Singapore spirit and attitude of never settling.
“Whether you are a nature lover, culture buff, foodie or action-seeker, Singapore offers a multitude of inspiring experiences to travellers with a passion for discovery.”