Norwegian Air saw March carryings rise by 60% year-on-year to reach 1.5 million passengers.
The start of the summer schedule saw a spike in capacity by the Scandinavian low cost carrier with booking levels reported to be above this time last year.
The airline operated an average of 67 aircraft with punctuality at 81% despite what was described as both challenging weather conditions and significant labour action affecting air traffic across Europe.
Parts of the airline’s ground handling service at Oslo Gardermoen airport has been brought in-house with 150 new staff joining the company.
The ‘Norwegian Red’ handling team initially manages customer facing positions at check-in, boarding and arrivals.
Chief executive Geir Karlsen said: “We are very satisfied to see that the transition has gone smoothly.
“Insourcing of ground handling services at our largest base is an important step in bringing key functions in-house to deliver better customer service and a more seamless travel experience.”
He described March as being a “very solid month” as it marked the start of the summer schedule with a “considerable ramp up” in capacity.
Karlsen added: “We are heading into the summer season with a positive outlook. Our booking numbers are significantly higher than at this point last year. This indicates a continued strong demand for air travel, particularly to our many attractive beach destinations, and we expect a busy summer once more.”
The carrier is to take delivery of 11 Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft ahead of the summer peak and is continuing to recruit new cabin crew.
The summer network covers 114 destinations with more than 300 routes.