The first P&O Cruises charter flight operated by Norse Atlantic Airways to serve ships in the Caribbean this winter has left from Manchester airport.
The low cost long-haul carrier has been contracted to replace Maleth Aero, the subject of potential legal action after flight delays last winter.
Norse Atlantic joins charter flights provided by Tui Airways and Virgin Atlantic to connect with the ships Arvia and Britannia.
The airline’s two-class Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft will fly weekly on Fridays from Manchester to Barbados until next March.
Saturday flights will also run on alternating weeks from Gatwick and Manchester to Antigua/Barbados.
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “We are immensely proud to see the first charter flight with Norse Atlantic Airways take off, marking the start of our winter Caribbean season.
“We know flights play a key role in the overall holiday experience, which is why we chose to partner with Norse, alongside Tui Airways and Virgin Atlantic for our charter offering.
“These partnerships underpin our commitment to ensuring our guests receive a consistently high level of service across all elements of their P&O Cruises holiday.”
Norse Atlantic founder and chief executive Bjorn Tore Larsen added: “We are excited to start this journey with P&O Cruises, connecting UK travellers to stunning Caribbean destinations.
“Our commitment to quality and affordability aligns perfectly with P&O Cruises promise of an unforgettable holiday, and we’re delighted to offer passengers comfortable, direct flights that make their travel as enjoyable as their time on the islands.”