The start-up airline has been granted slots to allow it to offer two departures a day, six days a week. They will begin from an unspecified date “this summer”.

Norse Atlantic founder and chief executive Bjorn Tore Larsen said: “We’re thrilled to have been awarded slots to operate flights to and from London Gatwick airport as it gives us access to one of the most attractive markets in Europe.”

The carrier said the slots were awarded to Norse “at no cost by the UK airport slots coordinator”. Norse’s application for Gatwick slots was initially turned down late last year, when it was given approval to fly from Stansted. The carrier has not said what are its intentions for the Essex airport.

Gatwick services will not be part of the airline’s initial launch. The airline said: “Norse intends to commence flights in June between Norway and the US.” It added it planned to add other European destinations, “such as Paris and London”, as soon as the market situation allows. Tickets will go on sale next month, with the first flights “expected to be in June 2022”.

The launch of the new venture has been put back by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Norse said.

“The tragedy unfolding in Ukraine creates uncertainties within international air transport that we take seriously. Norse’s flexible fleet arrangements, low-cost base and strong financial foundation allow us to take a careful approach to launch.”

Norse agreed lower-cost “power by the hour” deals for ex-Norwegian aircraft during the pandemic.

"The fact that we currently only pay for our aircraft when they are in operation also gives us a competitive advantage,” Larsen added.  

The route network will be announced when ticket sales are launched.

Stewart Wingate, Gatwick chief executive, said: “We’re very much looking forward to welcoming Norse Atlantic Airways to Gatwick.  These new services mean we can offer our passengers some great-value long-haul fares, a fantastic experience onboard modern, cleaner aircraft, and even more choice of destination.”