Norse Atlantic expansion fuels Gatwick jobs boost

More than 400 new jobs have been created at Gatwick with expansion by Norse Atlantic Airways with six new transatlantic routes and a permanent base at the airport.

The low cost long-haul airline added flights to Los Angeles and San Francisco in the past week starts flying to Boston from September 2.

Norse, which began flying daily between Gatwick and New York last August, recently added routes to Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Washington.

The new routes and aircraft base – the Norwegian carrier’s largest – mean Norse has employed 250 cabin crew and 108 pilots on local contracts at Gatwick, as well as a further 25 support staff.

Having six aircraft based at Gatwick will also require at least 45 additional ground staff, employed through Red Handling.

Gatwick chief commercial officer Jonathan Pollard said: “These new Norse Atlantic routes are fantastic news for local people across London and the southeast.

“Not only do they offer excellent transatlantic connections, supporting both leisure and business travel, but importantly provide a significant number of new jobs for local people, as well as boosting the region’s economy.”

Norse Atlantic chief executive Bjorn Tore Larsen added: “Norse Atlantic Airways firmly believes in the importance of supporting local economies and creating job opportunities.

“We recognise the significance of London Gatwick as a thriving hub for both business and leisure travel. By fostering partnerships, investing in infrastructure, and prioritising the recruitment of local talent, we aim to not only boost employment but also contribute to the continued growth and prosperity of the region.”

The airport has hired more than 700 security staff since international travel restrictions were lifted last year, while almost 4,000 people work in Gatwick’s shops, restaurants and bars, with more outlets due to open in coming weeks.