BALPA has welcomed the establishment of a new airline in the UK, Norse Atlantic Airways, saying it shows confidence in the future of the UK travel sector which has been pummelled by COVID-19.

The new long-haul, low-cost airline has been launched and will open a base for its 787 operations at London Gatwick airport next year.

BALPA is already in constructive discussions with the airline’s executives and signed a recognition agreement earlier in the year. BALPA and the airline continue to work together to establish a positive working environment for crew from day one of employment.

Terry Brandon, BALPA National Officer said,

“The opening of this new airline is a much-needed glimmer of light for UK aviation at a time when we have seen the industry pummelled by COVID.

“I am pleased to welcome Norse Atlantic to Gatwick. This is a strong show of confidence in the future of the travel industry in the UK. BALPA will continue to work with the airline towards making it a positive place to work from day one.”

Mr Brandon and CEO Bjørn Tore Larsen met today in London as part of progressing a new and strong working relationship. Both union and employer are keen to establish a positive working environment for crew from day one of employment.

Norse Atlantic CEO Bjørn Tore Larsen said:

“Our airline values BALPA as one of our key social partners. The Association shares the same core principles in that we wish to be a career airline and an airline of choice.”

“We look forward to continuing this constructive dialogue and aim to reach a collective labour agreement when we visit BALPA’s HQ next month.”