Norwegian places new order for 30 Boeing 737-8 jets

Norwegian has confirmed a new order for 30 Boeing 737-8 aircraft, the first direct purchase from the US manufacturer since 2017. The deal raises the airline’s total 737 MAX orders to 80 planes, as it continues efforts to modernize its single-aisle fleet and support growth across its European route network.

The 737-8, part of the 737 MAX family, is configured to carry up to 200 passengers and offers a range of 3,500 nautical miles. Norwegian has relied predominantly on Boeing single-aisle aircraft since 2007, having first introduced the 737 MAX to its operations in 2017 as the European launch customer for the model.

In 2022, following a restructuring of its order book, Norwegian finalized an agreement for 50 737-8 jets with purchase rights for an additional 30 units. The new order exercises these options, reflecting the carrier’s renewed focus on short- and medium-haul operations. The company now operates a fleet of 86 Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The airline reported 22.6 million passengers transported in 2024. Norwegian’s management stated that the new aircraft are expected to contribute to sustainability goals and provide a consistent travel experience. The recent acquisition of regional carrier Widerøe is also set to expand Norwegian’s network reach within the Nordic region.

With deliveries of the new 737-8s, Norwegian is positioned to further consolidate its presence in the European market, while aiming to improve operational efficiency and fleet commonality. The airline will continue its focus on short-haul services, following a period of restructuring and network adjustment when it abandoned its long-haul flight network and returned its Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet.

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