Low-cost carrier Norwegian has pledged to continue transatlantic expansion into the US despite efforts to block its plans.
Washington approved legislation earlier this week to prevent Norwegian from flying to the US because of concerns the carrier will dodge international labour rules.
However, the transportation funding bill must be reconciled with the US Senate before becoming law.
An amendment seeks to prevent the US Department of Transportation from granting approval of long-haul arm Norwegian Air International to serve the US.
Norwegian Air International has been operating flights from the US to Norway for a year with fares starting at $99 one-way and has plans to start transatlantic services from Gatwick.
Rival US airlines and the Air Line Pilots Association, a union representing 50,000 pilots, have criticised the Norwegian proposal because they argue it would operate under a certificate from Ireland and hire Asian workers at rates lower than are competitive in the US and Europe.
The airline said: “We are disappointed the House legislation includes language attempting to pressure the US 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 US.
“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 US 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 US – 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.”