In further consolidation within the aviation industry, Norwegian has announced plans to acquire Widerøe, a major regional carrier in Norway.
Norwegian says they’ve agreed with WF Holding AS specifically to make this transaction move ahead, a deal that Norwegian says will see the brands complement each other.
Widerøe has a fleet of 44 in-service aircraft spread across multiple aircraft types. However, largely its most important series is the DCH-8-100, other popular variants include other members of the DCH-8 family, such as the Q400.
This is a milestone in Norwegian aviation history. Our two airlines have existed side by side for many years and no one knows the aviation market in Norway better. With this transaction, we will now create a streamlined and more comprehensive offer for all customers, and we look forward to offering seamless travel across our entire route networks.
Geir Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.
One benefit of such consolidation is the lack of overlapping routes on the Widerøe and Norwegian networks. It means that the integration will be more seamless, and Norwegian says they’ll significantly benefit from adding Widerøe’sWiderøe’st regional network.
Widerøe’sWiderøe’scovers more than 40 small and medium-sized airports right across Norway. In addition, it features some larger European airports. Pair that with Norwegian’ network, and the airline believes it’s the right move.
A deal per Norwegian will be acquired for a cash consideration of NOK 1,125 million. However, this purchase price is very much subject to change, with more being revealed later. Once completed bases will remain in Norway and employees will also remain at their existing companies, under collective agreements.
