KERRY explorer Tom Crean is to honoured on a Norwegian Air International aircraft flying transatlantic routes from Ireland this summer.

He will be the first non-Norwegian to become one of the airline’s “tailfin heroes”.

The airline honours well-known people from Norway including Hollywood actress Greta Garbo and artist Edvard Munch, but the Kerry man’s heroic exploits have impressed the airline.

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The Antarctic explorer will feature on the tailfin of the plane. Tom Crean from Annascaul took part in three British navy expeditions to Antarctica and earned medals for bravery.

Crean’s family said; “We are delighted to honour our grandfather’s bravery and courage by bringing his name and exploits to Norwegian’s many US and European customers. As our family continues Tom Crean’s legacy with our own Antarctic exploits, we wish Norwegian the very best in their new endeavours.”

Right, over to you Aerlingus and Ryanair. From July, Norwegian will begin flying to the US east coast from Belfast, Cork, Dublin and Shannon.