Emirates, described as a global enabler of trade and business, has expanded its Scandinavian reach with the start of its daily nonstop service to Oslo.

Emirates’ daily flight to Oslo, operated with a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, is the first international service to offer a “first class” product in Norway.

The inaugural flight on Tuesday (Sept. 2) was welcomed by Avinor’s CEO Dag Falk-Petersen, along with partners from the travel trade and local media. A contingent of Norwegian business leaders based in Dubai also accompanied senior Emirates representatives on the inaugural flight. It is estimated that over 1,200 Norwegians currently reside in the UAE.

Thierry Antinori, EVP and chief commercial officer, said: “Our new service to Oslo will play an important role in developing new opportunities for major Norwegian industries through enhanced connectivity via the Dubai hub. Norway’s booming oil, gas, maritime, fishing and telecom sectors will all derive substantial benefits from new links provided by Emirates to over 49 destinations in the Far East and Australasia, West Asia, Indian Ocean and Middle East, resulting in a spectrum of new economic activity.”

“Customers will also be able to experience our flagship A380, connecting to 14 destinations in the Far East, Middle East, Australasia and Indian Ocean. Additionally, more Norwegian travelers will be able to discover Dubai's cosmopolitan world-class attractions via Emirates’ direct daily service,” he added.

Avinor CEO Dag Falk-Petersen said: “We are thrilled that Emirates are now launching direct flights between Oslo and Dubai. The partnership with a leading global brand such as Emirates is of great importance for us at Oslo Airport. The new direct route with Emirates facilitates for a host of new travel opportunities to Asia and Australia with only one stop, and provides faster connections to destinations such as Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide.”