Norwegian is set to establish a new base in Gran Canaria, scheduled to operate with two aircraft starting from October 2024, with an anticipated creation of between 80 to 120 job opportunities. This move underscores the airline’s dedication to Spain, following a record operating profit of NOK 2,232 million in 2023.
With over two decades of presence in the Spanish market, the airline is poised to expand its operations significantly. By the summer of 2024, the airline aims to operate 79 routes and have 13 aircraft based in Spain. This expansion aligns with Norwegian’s post-pandemic strategy of sustainable growth, both within Spain and across Nordic countries. Additionally, the recent acquisition of Wideroe, a Norwegian regional airline boasting a fleet of 48 aircraft, further strengthens its position in the aviation industry.
The Norwegian Group, comprising Norwegian Air Shuttle and Wideroe, remains committed to responsible tourism. It facilitates connections between major capitals such as Stockholm and Oslo with Spanish cities like Bilbao, Madrid, and Lanzarote, having transported 1.5 million passengers in February 2024 alone.
Building upon its success, Norwegian has decided to open a new base in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, marking the fourth base in Spain alongside Alicante, Barcelona, and Malaga, with an additional base in Palma de Mallorca during the summer season. The new base in Gran Canaria will serve routes to destinations such as Stockholm, Oslo, Gothenburg (Sweden), and Torp (Norway), catering to the increasing number of Spaniards drawn to these destinations for their natural beauty and adventurous offerings.
Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian, expressed his delight in announcing the establishment of the new base in the Canary Islands for the winter season 2024/2025. He emphasized the airline’s growing commitment to Spain, highlighting the country’s rising significance as a market for the airline. Karlsen stressed the aim to enhance connectivity with the Canary Islands, responding to the growing popularity among Norwegian travelers, while also expanding connections to Nordic countries to enable Spaniards to explore the untamed landscapes of the north.