Travel Tech Supports Norwegian Air’s U.S. Expansion

washington dcThe Travel Technology Association (Travel Tech)  reports it has filed a statement with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) supporting Norwegian Air International’s application for a foreign air carrier permit.

"Granting the application would benefit consumers by providing additional low-cost options for travel to and from the U.S. while creating jobs, and improving travel and tourism economies," Travel Tech said.

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“Norwegian Air’s U.S. expansion is welcome news for consumers looking for low-cost trans-Atlantic flight options,” said Steve Shur, president of Travel Tech. “Travel Tech supports consumers having more options, and in particular, more low cost options. When more people travel, everyone benefits, from the suppliers to the communities where these travelers visit. We urge the U.S. Department of Transportation to approve the application so economies on both sides of the Atlantic can benefit from increased air travel.”

 
Travel Tech said its filing supported Norwegian Air International’s application on five primary grounds:

  • Competition Benefits Consumers: Increased competition from foreign low cost carriers is good for consumers and good for travel and tourism economies. 
  • Economic Boon for U.S. Economy: Norwegian Air is purchasing $11.4 billion in aircraft from American companies and will bring hundreds of thousands of foreign tourists to the United States. 
  • Job Creation: The approval of Norwegian Air’s application will create thousands of direct and indirect U.S. jobs. 
  • Consumer demand is driving the expansion of service to U.S.: The world marketplace for travelers is expanding and the U.S. should take advantage of this growth. 
  • Rejection of the application is inconsistent with Open Skies Agreement’s spirit, intent and history: Open Skies Agreement was created to foster growth in international travel. 

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Travel Tech’s members represent online travel agents (OTAs) and global distribution systems (GDSs).

Visit www.TravelTech.org