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Norwegian Air steps in following collapse of Flyr

Norwegian Air has pledged to offer roles to those who lost jobs with the failure of rival carrier Flyr.

The airline is also offering flights to passengers affected by the collapse.

Norwegian Air is recruiting new staff as it gears up for the summer with new aircraft and an expanded network of 300 routes to 114 destinations.

Chief executive Geir Karlsen said: “The past week has been very particular for the Nordic aviation sector, marked by Flyr’s bankruptcy. 

“I strongly sympathise with the employees, customers and others affected by the situation. 

“We would like to make sure stranded passengers reach their destinations, provided we have free seats available. 

“We also invite employees that have been affected by the bankruptcy to apply to job vacancies at Norwegian.”

The move came as the airline reported 1.1 million passenger carryings last month, up by 78% on January 2022, as it flew a fleet of 62 aircraft.

Karlsen added: “People traditionally travel less in January, instead using this time of year to book their next travels. Nevertheless, we had close to full flights to warmer destinations this month. 

“Our new year’s sales campaign resulted in more than one million sold seats, a satisfying start to this year’s ticket sales. 

“We see that the positive booking trend continues also after this sale. Many of our passengers are currently planning their travels for this year’s school breaks and long weekends in May.”

Meanwhile, Norwegian Air plans to lease six extra Boeing 737 Max aircraft in addition to three previously agreed.

The new generation 737s are to be delivered “in good time” ahead of the summer 2023 season.

Karlsen said: “The addition of these modern and fuel-efficient aircraft fits well with our fleet strategy. It will also help counteract delays from Boeing for other aircraft that were due to be delivered to Norwegian this spring.”

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