Norwegian Air

Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, commonly known as Norwegian, is a prominent low-cost airline that revolutionized European air travel following its strategic pivot to the budget model in 2002. Originally founded in 1993 to take over regional routes in Western Norway previously operated by Busy Bee, the airline has grown into Scandinavia's second-largest carrier and one of the major players in the European aviation market.

Following a significant financial restructuring in 2021, the company has transitioned from being primarily founder-led to an independent, publicly traded entity with a diverse shareholder base. The ownership is now largely held by institutional investors, including former creditors and financial institutions that supported its survival. By early 2026, the company achieved record financial stability, marked by the successful acquisition of the regional carrier Widerøe in 2024 and a strategic focus on short-haul Nordic and European routes.

The brand remains centered in Norway, with its corporate headquarters located in Fornebu. Its operational model is supported by various subsidiaries based in several European countries, utilizing a modern fleet primarily composed of Boeing 737 aircraft. The airline is famous for its distinctive 'Red Nose' livery and the 'Tail Fin Heroes' series, which features portraits of culturally and historically significant figures from various nations.