Norwegian Airlines has announced its first transatlantic Canadian route. Starting in spring 2019, Norwegian will fly nonstop from Hamilton to Dublin. Initial fares start at $568 CAD roundtrip.
Norwegian Expands to Canada
An interesting choice for Norwegian, Hamilton rests halfway between Toronto and Niagara Falls. Norwegian labels this airport as Hamilton-Toronto on its website so its clear the Toronto market is the target. New nonstop service between Hamilton and Dublin is set to begin March 31, 2019. Surely, more new Canadian routes will follow.
Hamilton (YHM) is attracting multiple low-cost carriers this year. The new ultra-low-cost Canadian carrier, Swoop, began service earlier this week and Flair Air also has a few flights from Hamilton. It appears the airport is trying to become a secondary airport for the Toronto metro area. It can also be a great gateway for those in western New York who are looking for a cheap flight.
Hamilton - Dublin to be First Transatlantic Norwegian Route for Canada
The initial fare of $568 CAD ($463 USD) nonstop from Hamilton to Dublin isn't as low as you'd expect from the low-cost carrier, but we'll be on the lookout for price drops going forward. You may be able to obtain slightly lower fares by purchasing two separate one-way fares and/or booking on a Norwegian website from a different country of origin. Keep in mind, foreign transaction fees may apply if booking in a different currency. Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid any potential loss in savings.
Norwegian's LowFare only includes 22 lbs. of hand luggage (one carry-on up to 55x40x23 cm & one personal item that can fit underneath your seat). Checked baggage starts at $50 CAD each way. Meal service and advanced seat selection are not included in this fare. You can purchase Norwegian's "LowFare+", which includes first checked bag, meal, and seat selection for less than purchasing these items separately.
Lower Fares from Toronto
If you would rather fly from Toronto's Pearson (YYZ) airport, you'll actually find slightly lower fares this fall. Air Transat has nonstop flights from Toronto to Dublin for $594 CAD ($451 USD) roundtrip including a checked bag. If you don't mind a connection, you can fly on Icleandair from Toronto to Dublin for $490 CAD ($368 USD) roundtrip via Reykjavik, including carry-on bags, but like Norwegian, checked bags are extra. If you can travel super light, WOW air has tickets for $470 CAD ($346 USD) roundtrip with just a small personal item included.
Prices on Airfarwewatchdog fare pages are listed in USD.
Header image by Markus Schmal via Shutterstock.
