Key Takeaways
- Norwegian expands its summer schedule with direct Tromsø flights to Berlin, Paris, and Bergamo, Milan, starting January 15.
- Summer 2024 unveils 279 routes across Nordic countries, highlighting Norwegian’s expansion and focus on sustainability with Boeing 737-MAX 8 jets.
- Commitment to sustainability is evident in Norwegian’s adoption of fuel-efficient aircraft.
- April 2024 showcased promising performance despite challenges, with increased passengers and strong summer bookings.
- Norwegian’s partnership with Widerøe offers seamless bookings across both airlines’ networks, enhancing traveller convenience.
As the warmer months approach, Norwegian is gearing up for one of its most robust summer schedules yet.
According to the airline’s recent announcement, Tromsø will soon enjoy direct flights to Berlin, Paris, and Bergamo, Milan. These services are slated to commence on January 15.
According to a Business Travel News Europe report, the Tromsø-Berlin route will operate on Thursdays and Sundays, Tromsø-Paris on Mondays and Fridays, and Tromsø-Bergamo, Milan on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Expansion and Modernization
Per the report, Magnus Maursund, chief commercial officer at Norwegian, said: “Next summer, more aircraft will be added to our fleet, meaning that we can launch new routes and add frequencies to our existing route network.”
The report noted that the summer 2024 schedule showcases 279 routes across Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland.
By next summer, Norwegian’s fleet will house around 90 aircraft, many fuel-efficient Boeing 737-MAX 8, highlighting the airline’s commitment to sustainability.
Historic Performance
According to a Norwegian report, April showcased a promising start for the airline, with 1.7 million passengers and a load factor of 83%. These figures represent a 19% rise in passengers from April 2022.
Despite challenges like adverse weather conditions at Oslo Airport Gardermoen, which caused significant delays, Norwegian maintained a punctuality rate of 83.4%. Additionally, 95.6% of flights departed within one hour of their scheduled time.
“We are satisfied with this month’s traffic figures. April is the first full month of our summer schedule with more routes and higher frequencies to our many destinations across the Nordics and Europe,” said Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian, per the report. “We are particularly pleased with the continued strong booking momentum ahead of the summer season.”
Growing Demand and Partnership Benefits
Norwegian reports heightened travel demands, especially during May’s public holidays. Popular destinations include Spain, Italy, and France, prompting the airline to add extra departures to Barcelona, Palma, and Malaga.
The report noted that in further good news for passengers, a partnership between Norwegian and Widerøe means customers can now book flights across both airlines’ networks on a single ticket.
While available on Widerøe’s website and through travel agents, Norwegian will soon extend this convenience to its website and app.
This initiative follows the airline’s recent acquisition of Widerøe, bolstering its foothold in the aviation market with a deal valued at approximately €100 million (NOK1,125 million).
What We Think
Norwegian’s ambitious summer schedule and strategic partnerships reflect its commitment to meeting increased travel demands and offering seamless services.
The acquisition of Widerøe further strengthens its position in the aviation market. The airline’s focus on sustainability, seen through its modernized fleet, aligns with industry trends and emphasizes its dedication to eco-friendly practices.
Despite challenges, Norwegian’s consistent growth and innovative approaches position it well to cater to evolving traveller needs while expanding its network and enhancing customer convenience.
