Our top five stories on Routes Weekly this week:

1. Network analysis: The impact of a potential IAG takeover of Norwegian
As IAG’s pursuit of Scandinavian low-cost carrier Norwegian continues, Routesonline examines the current network competition and why a deal will give the British Airways owner immediate scale in the long-haul low-cost market. Read more.

2. Japan’s low-cost expansion gathers pace
Competition in Japan's low-cost sector looks set to intensify with Japan Airlines confirming that it could establish a budget carrier that would operate long-haul routes to Europe and North America. Routesonline explores the growth of LCCs in the country over the past five years. Read more.

3. American 'committed to China' despite route withdrawal
American Airlines is to end its Chicago O’Hare-Beijing Capital service as the current fare environment "severely limits" the carrier's ability to compete. Read more.

4. Swoop on track for launch despite labour dispute
WestJet’s new ultra low-cost arm will have six aircraft in service before the end of the year, the carrier’s chief executive has confirmed, with plans to expand trans-border and internationally. Read more.

5. In pictures: Ghana celebrates Routes Africa return
A ceremony to celebrate Routes Africa 2018 being held in Ghana has been held in the country's capital Accra. This year’s event will be held from 16-18 July and hosted by Ghana Airports Company Limited. Read more.

PLUS:
Infographic: The South Australia international growth story
Route rundown: LHR-DUR, DXB-EDI, BOG-ORD
New Angolan domestic airline orders six turboprops
Bulletin board: aviation industry news round-up