Norse Atlantic January passenger numbers rise despite ‘operational challenges’

Norse Atlantic Airways saw passenger numbers rise by more than a third in January despite a period of “operational challenges”.

 

The long-haul low cost carrier entered the new year having completed a 50-50 fleet split, with six Boeing 787 Dreamliners operating its own routes and six others out on lease or operating charter flights.

 

Passenger growth of 36% saw 151,000 carryings across the in-house network and ACMI/charter operations with a load factor up five percentage points year on year to 99%.

 

A 21% rise in unit revenue across its own network of 236 flights in the month reflected strong demand and “significantly higher” average ticket prices, according to the carrier. 

 

However, the airline’s on-time performance was negatively impacted by continued air traffic control delays, airport congestion and “weather challenges”.

 

Just 36% of flights on its own network departed within 15 minutes of scheduled departure time against 70% a year earlier.

 

Norse Atlantic, which runs a network flights from Gatwick, also reported temporary capacity reductions due to “follow-on impacts” from an engine maintenance programme.

 

The carrier reported revenue of $680 million in the 12 months ending  September 30, 2025.

 

Chief executive Eivind Roald said: “Norse Atlantic is off to a very good start in 2026 with significant improvements across nearly all operational metrics, led by higher production and robust customer demand resulting in full flights and record unit revenue in our own network.

 

“We have completed the transition to a balanced business model with six aircraft in our own network and six on long-term charters generating stable, predictable earnings with no fuel price risk. 

 

“Last, but not least, we are focusing on improving our on-time performance and customer communication after a period of operational challenges. 

 

“I am pleased to see that the strategic measures taken in 2025 yielding tangible results at the start of the new year, and we are fully focused on continuing this positive trend.”