Norse Atlantic Airways has announced a strategic realignment of its international network, halting its Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to New York John F. Kennedy (JFK) service for the Winter 2025 season. The decision comes amid a seasonal decline in transatlantic demand and intensifying competition. The low-cost long-haul carrier is instead redirecting its focus to Southeast Asia, unveiling a bold expansion with new direct flights to Thailand’s key tourism hubs — Bangkok and Phuket — from major European cities.
The move reflects Norse Atlantic’s evolving strategy to prioritize high-growth travel markets while maximizing fleet efficiency with its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.
Paris–New York Route Suspended as Travel Demand Wanes
Norse Atlantic Airways, known for its affordable long-haul offerings, had operated its Paris-New York route three times weekly, offering 1,014 seats per week. However, the route will be suspended starting October 2025 due to waning winter travel demand across the North Atlantic corridor. The airline cited shifting market conditions and a seasonal downturn in transatlantic passenger flow as key reasons for the route’s temporary closure.
This decision allows the airline to optimize aircraft utilization by redeploying capacity to routes with greater growth potential and more consistent year-round demand. Norse’s management emphasized that the airline remains committed to its U.S. network, but resource allocation will favor more dynamic markets, particularly in Southeast Asia.
Thailand Emerges as Norse Atlantic’s New Growth Frontier
With tourism to Thailand rebounding strongly post-pandemic, Norse Atlantic Airways is taking full advantage of rising demand for long-haul leisure travel to Southeast Asia. The airline will launch five new direct routes connecting Europe to Thailand beginning in late 2025.
These include:
- Stockholm (ARN) to Bangkok (BKK): Launching October 22, 2025
- London Gatwick (LGW) to Bangkok (BKK): Launching October 26, 2025
- Manchester (MAN) to Bangkok (BKK): Launching November 26, 2025 (first direct service from MAN to Thailand)
- Stockholm (ARN) to Phuket (HKT): Launching December 4, 2025
- Oslo (OSL) to Phuket (HKT): Launching December 8, 2025
These new connections will make Norse Atlantic one of the most prominent low-cost carriers serving Thailand from Northern and Western Europe. Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital, is not only a top leisure destination but also a regional business hub. Phuket, the country’s largest island, draws millions of international tourists every year, particularly during the winter peak season from November through March.
According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), international arrivals to the country exceeded 30 million in 2024, and this number is expected to surpass 35 million by the end of 2025. The United Kingdom and Scandinavian markets remain among the top sources of long-haul visitors to Thailand, reinforcing the value of Norse’s new direct services.
Manchester to Bangkok: A Game-Changer for the U.K. Travel Market
One of the most significant announcements is Norse Atlantic’s new nonstop service from Manchester Airport (MAN) to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) — the first-ever direct route between the two cities. This flight, beginning November 26, 2025, is expected to dramatically boost outbound leisure tourism from the North of England while enhancing inbound tourism opportunities for Thailand.
Manchester Airport’s Managing Director has welcomed the move, noting that it positions the airport as a major international gateway to Asia and creates more affordable travel options for U.K. travelers.
New Phuket Routes Cater to Europe’s Winter Sun Seekers
To cater to Europe’s demand for tropical getaways during the colder months, Norse is also introducing direct flights from Stockholm and Oslo to Phuket (HKT), Thailand’s most visited island destination. These routes will debut in early December, timed to capture peak holiday travel and the Scandinavian winter escape season.
Phuket, famed for its beaches, resorts, and vibrant nightlife, remains a top choice for winter sun seekers. The new flights will give travelers a convenient, nonstop alternative to lengthy multi-stop itineraries, supporting Thailand’s goals of extending average stay durations and tourism revenue.
Fleet Efficiency with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
To support these long-haul additions, Norse Atlantic has optimized its operations by streamlining its fleet exclusively to eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. This move retires the smaller 787-8 variant previously in use. The newer and larger 787-9 aircraft features a 338-seat configuration, including 56 premium economy seats and 282 in economy.
The Dreamliner is well-suited for long-haul, fuel-efficient operations, particularly for routes to Southeast Asia. The fleet unification allows Norse to reduce maintenance costs, enhance crew training efficiency, and deliver a consistent passenger experience across its expanding route network.
Strategic Pivot for Long-Term Growth
Norse Atlantic Airways’ pivot away from certain North Atlantic markets toward high-potential destinations in Asia marks a calculated strategic move. With the growing popularity of Thailand and broader Southeast Asia as global travel hotspots, the airline is tapping into robust demand from both leisure and business sectors.
The launch of direct flights to Bangkok and Phuket not only strengthens Norse’s position in Asia but also provides European travelers with more affordable and convenient travel options to tropical destinations.
By focusing on growing markets, enhancing fleet efficiency, and increasing route diversity, Norse Atlantic is aligning itself for sustained success in the competitive long-haul market.
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