Finally some good news for troubled Oslo-based Norwegian Air: It’s been hailed as Europe’s best low-fare carrier by an industry website, AirlineRatings.com.
The jury claimed that Norwegian, which has had a bumpy ride since introducing its long-haul service to Asia and North America with just a few Boeing 787 Dreamliners that have had lots of problems, nonetheless has been able to offer its passengers an innovative product at a low price.
“We chose Norwegian because of the company’s creative concept with reasonable tickets to millions of passengers around Europe,” stated Geoffrey Thomas, editor-in-chief of AirlineRatings.com (external link), in a press release on Wednesday. He claimed Norwegian has brought a “touch of class” and innovation to the airline industry in European, and now also to the rest of the world.
Norwegian also won a prize as “Europe’s best low-fare carrier” in the SkyTrax World Airline Awards last summer. It’s been cited for its new, environmentally friendly aircraft, on-board WiFi and low fares.
Norwegian’s chief executive and major stockholder, Bjørn Kjos, said he was “incredibly glad and proud” over the latest recognition. “It also shows that everyone in Norwegian works hard every day to make sure our passengers have a good experience,” Kjos said.
The airline, launched just 10 years ago, has succeeded in the European market but faces major problems with its new intercontinental service that has been plagued by myriad delays and cancellations, poor service on board and a flood of complaints from upset passengers. Several labour unions both in Norway and the US are also accusing Norwegian of social dumping, for using lower-paid Asian crews on its long-haul flights, also to the US.
newsinenglish.no staff
