In sensational news, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has announced it will be swapping waves for wings with the launch of its own airline

Fred. Olsen Airlines will hit the skies with two aircraft each carrying 190 passengers – Brisa, inspired by the Norwegian word bris (meaning breeze), and Beacon.

The company confirmed flights will operate from hubs in London and Manchester, serving a number of marquee Mediterranean destinations to complement the line’s 2025 and 2026 fly-cruise itineraries.

Operating under the tagline From Waves to Wings, Fred. Olsen Airlines will be spearheaded from the company’s UK headquarters in Ipswich by CEO Samantha Stimpson.

The airline’s launch follows Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ recent announcement that it will continue to offer fly-cruises as part of its autumn/winter 2026 programme.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Keep up to date with all the latest news and incentives by signing up to our weekly bulletin, landing every Thursday.

Submit chevron_right

By providing your email address you consent to us sending you information by email. For more information see our privacy policy.

Stimpson said: “This is an incredibly exciting new venture for us. As a cruise line, we are known for our personalised service and attention to detail, and we can’t wait to bring this same level of care to the skies as we move ‘From Waves to Wings’ with our new airline.”

“Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has long been established as a leader in ex-UK sailings, offering everything from five-night breaks to worldwide adventures.

“The launch of our airline cements our commitment to exceptional fly-cruise experiences, serving the Mediterranean and beyond from Autumn 2025.”

We thought we’d see pigs fly before a cruise line. How wrong we were…