The US Department of Transportation announced today that it will require additional time to reach a decision on Norwegian Air International’s application for a foreign carrier permit to serve the US from Europe. 

Until then, Norwegian Air Shuttle will continue to operate flights to the US under its existing authority from DOT.

Norwegian urges DOT to expedite its review and issue NAI’s foreign carrier permit fly to the US – once and for all. 

Today’s announcement to dismiss the exemption application, “on procedural grounds”, gives the DOT additional time to consider NAI’s permit application.

It is not a denial, Norwegian is keen to stress. 

“While we think it is unfortunate that DOT feels the need to further delay issuance of our permit, which has been pending now for over six months, Norwegian Air International stands behind its business – from its pilots and cabin crew to its affordable fare model to its desire to bring competition to the transatlantic market – and looks forward to receiving approval to operate without further delay,” said Asgeir Nyseth, chief executive of Norwegian Air International.

Norwegian Air Shuttle already holds a permit to fly between Europe and the US, and Norwegian Air Shuttle’s existing operations to the US are not affected by today’s announcement.

The EU-US Open Skies Agreement requires that permits be issued with “minimum procedural delay”.

Both the European Commission and the Irish Government have clearly voiced support for NAI’s application.