Norwegian Air ‘well positioned’ for higher interest in Nordics travel

The Norwegian Group of airlines is “well positioned” to capitalise on increased interest in travel to the Nordic region this year.

The declaration came as the company reported a record profit in 2025 as passenger carryings grew by almost a million.

The parent company of Norwegian Air and regional carrier Wideroe delivered a profit of NOK 3 billion (£220 million) the highest in the company’s history. 

The fourth quarter resulted in an operating profit of NOK 21 million (£1.6 million) against a loss in the same period in 2024. 

Annual passenger numbers rose to 27.3 million from 26.4 million the previous year. 

The group flew 6.2 million passengers in the fourth quarter, with 5.2 million using Norwegian Air and one million with Wideroe. 

This came as Norwegian Air capacity was reduced by 3% to adjust for seasonally lower demand, while Wideroe’s increased by 2%. 

Norwegian achieved a load factor of 86%, an increase of 1.8 percentage points from the same period in 2024. The Wideroe load factor was 70.5%. 

Chief executive Geir Karlsen said: “I am pleased to report the best full-year result in Norwegian’s history, a result to which also Wideroe contributed. 

“This demonstrates that our customers value our product and the service we provide. 

“The strong performance enables us to continue paying a dividend to our shareholders, while also continuing to invest for the future, including in one of Europe’s most modern aircraft fleets.” 

Norwegian Air expects to have a fleet of 95 aircraft for the summer, a 3% rise in capacity over last year.

Karlsen said: "We are well-positioned to capitalise on the increased interest in travel to the Nordics. 

“This year, we will continue our efforts to strengthen our product offering, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. 

“The closer collaboration between Norwegian and Wideroe, especially through the joint loyalty programme and growing route network, will further enhance our position as a preferred airline in the Nordics.”