Norwegian and Widerøe Show Strong Passenger and Load Factor Growth
In October 2024, the Norwegian Group, consisting of Norwegian Air and Widerøe, demonstrated a robust improvement in their operational metrics. The group’s carriers not only succeeded in increasing their passenger numbers but also saw a significant rise in their passenger load factors, indicating efficient capacity management and strong market demand. This update provides a comprehensive look at the performance metrics and strategic moves of both airlines during the period.
Performance Metrics of Norwegian Air
Norwegian Air transported a total of 2,197,751 passengers in October 2024, marking a notable increase in traffic. The airline’s capacity, measured in Available Seat Kilometers (ASKs), saw a 10% increase compared to October 2023, reaching 3,437 million seat kilometers. More impressively, the revenue passenger traffic, measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPKs), escalated to 2,982 million seat kilometers, showing an 11% increase year-over-year. The overall load factor, a critical indicator of efficiency, reached 86.8%, up by 0.6 percentage points from the previous year.
The airline’s operational efficiency was highlighted by a high flight completion rate of 99.3% and an on-time performance of 81.8%. Despite a slight decrease from the previous year’s punctuality rate, this figure represents a strong recovery and improvement over the preceding months of 2024. The average fleet during October consisted of 85 aircraft, including 63 Boeing 737-800s and 22 Boeing 737 MAX 8s, each seating 186 and 189 passengers respectively.
Strategic Developments and Forward Outlook
Amid these promising results, Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian, highlighted the strategic opening of a new base in Gran Canaria. This move is aimed at bolstering the airline’s winter season operations by introducing new leisure routes and enhancing service accessibility. The CEO expressed optimism about the upcoming winter and Christmas travel seasons, noting strong booking momentum and advising customers to book their travel plans early.
Performance and Growth of Widerøe
Widerøe, the regional arm of the group, also showed positive trends by transporting 372,757 passengers in October 2024. The airline increased its capacity by 5% over the previous year, with the total ASK reaching 192 million seat kilometers. Passenger traffic (RPK) stood at 141 million seat kilometers. The load factor for Widerøe impressively reached 73.6%, an increase of 5.2 percentage points from October 2023. These figures underline a sustained upward trajectory in Widerøe’s operational performance throughout 2024.
Widerøe operated a diverse fleet of 50 aircraft, including 47 De Havilland Canada DHC-8 turboprops and three Embraer ERJ-190 regional jets. The carrier’s expansive route network includes 122 routes to 52 destinations across 10 countries, emphasizing its critical role in regional connectivity.
Conclusion
The October 2024 performance report for Norwegian and Widerøe reflects a period of robust growth and strategic expansion. With increased passenger numbers, higher load factors, and strategic base openings, the Norwegian Group is well-positioned to continue its positive trajectory in the competitive aviation market. As we approach the high-demand winter season, both airlines are poised to meet the increased passenger demand effectively, backed by strong operational frameworks and strategic planning.