Flights from London to Rio de Janeiro are to be offered from £240 one-way by low cost carrier Norwegian.
The carrier will break the monopoly on flights to Brazil with a new service to Rio de Janeiro–Galeao International airport from Gatwick.
Flights will run on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from March 31 using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with up to 344 seats in a two-class configuration.
The new route adds to Norwegian’s transatlantic network of 12 popular US destinations and Buenos Aires in Argentina.
The Gatwick-Buenos Aires route will increase from four flights a week to a daily service from December 3 in response to customer demand.
The airline started domestic flights in Argentina with two routes from Buenos Aires to Mendoza and Cordoba in October ahead of planned new routes to Salta, Iguazú, Bariloche and Neuquén.
CEO Bjorn Kjos said: “We’re building on our expansive global network by launching the UK’s most affordable flights to Brazil and making South America available to even more consumers.
“Our new Rio de Janeiro route breaks the monopoly on direct flights between the UK and Brazil as we’re committed to lowering fares and making travel more affordable for all holidaymakers and business travellers.
“Brazil is a fantastic addition to our global network and we look forward to welcoming customers on board.”
Fred Arruda, Brazil’s ambassador to the UK added: “The new direct flight from London to Rio de Janeiro by Norwegian is excellent news for connectivity between Brazil and the UK.
“It will certainly increase the flow of tourists, allowing more British people to enjoy the beauties of Brazil.
“It will also help to create jobs in our country and improve competition, potentially reducing costs for passengers.”
Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate said: “This pioneering service to Rio de Janeiro builds on the exceptional choice of destinations and fares already on offer for Gatwick passengers, which has grown to more than 60 direct long haul routes.
“The UK’s connectivity into South America is extremely important for the future and a new direct, affordable route to Brazil will provide exciting opportunities for both business and leisure travellers.”