Norwegian is expanding its summer capacity on selected routes from Edinburgh to Scandinavia and Spain.

The move comes ahead of planned transatlantic flights to the US to be announced from the Scottish capital in the coming weeks.

The budget carrier says it is placing Edinburgh at the centre of its rapid UK growth, including 10 additional European flights a week from the end of March.

The airline is also resuming a twice-weekly service to Barcelona for the summer in addition to raising frequency on routes to Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm.

Great news for cruisers, Barcelona is one of Europe’s busiest ports and with limited flights from Edinburgh it is set to be a big hit.

Chief commercial officer, Thomas Ramdahl, said: “Norwegian’s expanded summer programme is just the start of our big plans at Edinburgh this year.

“Our increased number of flights to Europe will soon be complemented by new groundbreaking transatlantic flights offering customers a more affordable way to visit the USA.

The rumour is Norwegian is to offer flights from Edinburgh to New York at a very good price. Watch this space as a New York city break and cruise will be offered soon.

“While we finalise our transatlantic plans, we’ve put on sale more low-cost flights so that cost-conscious families and business people can access top European destinations at great value.”

Airport chief executive, Gordon Dewar, added: “Norwegian is a great business fit at Edinburgh Airport. We share similar international aspirations and are both committed to offering enhanced passenger experience and greater choice.

“The expanding Scandinavian market is valuable for Scotland’s tourism sector and economy at large – and we look forward to welcoming even more of our friends from Norway, Denmark and Sweden to Scotland.

“Edinburgh and Barcelona already have a strong association with one another and this service further improves links between the two cities.”

All flights are serviced by modern aircraft each offering up to 189 seats and free in flight Wi-Fi for all passengers.