Norwegian to Decide on 30 Boeing 737 MAX Options by Q3 2025

Norwegian Group plans to decide by late Q3 2025 whether to exercise its 30 options for Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, in addition to its existing order of 50 jets. CEO Geir Karlsen announced the decision during the airline’s Q4 2024 results presentation, highlighting the attractive pricing of the optional aircraft.

“We have 50 aircraft on order, and we’ll decide within six months whether to exercise the 30 options,” Karlsen said. The airline previously indicated these deliveries would occur between 2028 and 2031.

Norwegian has already received three new aircraft this year, with two currently in service, independently sourced from lessors. It expects to receive 11 to 13 more jets in 2024, growing its fleet to 94–96 aircraft by year-end. Financing has been secured for the first 18 Boeing 737 MAX units, with 13 set for ownership and 12 leased through sale-leaseback agreements.

Karlsen noted Boeing’s slower-than-expected delivery pace, alongside Airbus’s engine issues affecting global A320neo operations. Despite these challenges, the airline remains optimistic about market capacity and demand.

The group is also focused on cost reduction and operational synergies with subsidiary Widerøe. A new profitability initiative will run through 2026, aiming to boost revenue and streamline expenses. Norwegian is also developing a new distribution platform to enhance upselling, interlining, and partnerships.

Norwegian reported a 2024 operating profit of NOK1.87 billion (USD168.4 million), with revenues rising to NOK35.3 billion (USD3.2 billion), signaling confidence in continued growth amid positive booking trends.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com