Page Unavailable – ABC News

London, United Kingdom — August 8, 2023

In short: EasyJet and Norwegian Air launch joint venture to expand European low-cost routes.

EasyJet & Norwegian Air Form JV to Expand European Low-Cost Network

[Paragraph 1 — THE NEWS: 70 words] EasyJet and Norwegian Air have announced a strategic partnership to jointly develop and operate new low-cost routes across Europe. According to the companies, the joint venture will focus on connecting key European hubs with emerging markets, leveraging both carriers’ extensive route networks. The partnership aims to offer travelers more affordable options while expanding the carriers’ market share in the competitive European low-cost sector. The JV will initially operate flights between London, Paris, and Oslo, with plans to expand to additional European destinations within the next two years.

[Paragraph 2 — INDUSTRY CONTEXT: 70 words] This joint venture represents a significant development in the European low-cost airline market, where EasyJet and Norwegian Air are among the leading players. While competitors such as Ryanair and Wizz Air already operate extensive low-cost networks, the new partnership introduces a fresh dynamic by combining EasyJet’s established European footprint with Norwegian Air’s aggressive expansion strategy. The JV addresses the growing demand for affordable travel options in Europe, particularly as budget-conscious travelers seek more competitive pricing amid rising fuel costs and economic uncertainty. The joint venture is set to launch its inaugural flights in Q4 2023, with a phased expansion plan through 2025.

Key Details

• Joint Venture Name: EasyJet Norwegian Air Low-Cost Partnership
• Initial Routes: London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Oslo (OSL)
• Expansion Timeline: Additional European destinations added annually through 2025
• Operational Scope: Joint route development, shared aircraft utilization, and pooled marketing resources

What Travel Professionals Should Know

TMCs managing European corporate accounts: The EasyJet-Norwegian Air JV will introduce new low-cost options for business travelers, potentially offering more competitive pricing for trans-European routes. TMCs should update their corporate travel policies to include these new routes, particularly for routes that previously required premium pricing or longer travel times.

Airport lounge operators in Scandinavia: The expanded European network may lead to increased traffic at Oslo Airport (OSL), necessitating adjustments in lounge capacity and services. Operators should coordinate with EasyJet and Norwegian Air to ensure lounge availability aligns with the new flight schedules and passenger volumes.

When does this take effect? The joint venture officially launches in Q4 2023, with full operational capabilities expected by early 2024.

Read complete article.