ARENDAL- Norse Atlantic Airways (N0) experienced substantial growth and narrow losses in the second quarter (Q2) of 2024, with Available Seat Kilometres (ASK) increasing by 105%, flight numbers rising by 89%, and passenger count growing by 99% compared to the same period in 2023.
The airline’s load factor also improved, climbing seven percentage points to 82%.
Norse Atlantic Airways Losses
Despite this growth, Norse faced industry-wide challenges. Revenue per passenger declined by 11% year-over-year, aligning with the company’s July 2 market update. This decrease resulted from lower fare levels across the industry, primarily due to increased capacity in the Transatlantic market following a strong summer in 2023.
Norse expanded its fleet from 10 to 12 aircraft at the end of May, adding two 787-9s from sublease as planned. This 20% capacity increase led to improved economies of scale and reduced unit costs in the second quarter.
The company anticipates further Cost per Available Seat Kilometre (CASK) reductions in the third quarter.
In August, Norse secured improved terms with its credit card payment providers, potentially enhancing financial flexibility.
As the company focuses on delivering a successful summer season, it is also evolving its business strategy to maximize profitability and balance risks. Norse plans to dedicate a growing proportion of its capacity to Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) and charter flying.
While the third quarter remains dominated by Norse’s own network operations, the company aims to allocate at least half of its operated capacity to ACMI and charter contracts from the fourth quarter through the winter season.
Norse Atlantic Airways is set to join the Global Distribution System (GDS) in 2024, marking a significant expansion of its distribution strategy. This move will enable corporate and leisure travel agents worldwide to access and sell Norse’s inventory, substantially increasing the airline’s market reach.
Norse emphasizes that the most competitive fares will continue to be available directly through their website.
Withdrawing 787-8 Dreamliners
The airline has reached a preliminary agreement with one of its lessors to streamline its fleet. This arrangement involves the early return of three Boeing 787-8 aircraft in 2024, which are currently subleased and have the shortest remaining lease terms.
This strategic decision will result in Norse operating a uniform fleet of 787-9 aircraft, enhancing operational flexibility and cost-efficiency. The transaction is expected to generate a significant accounting gain, pending the completion of formal documentation and aircraft redeliveries.
Norse is developing a revised business plan that may allocate more of its fleet capacity and revenue to long-term contracts. This shift aims to reduce the company’s exposure to market risks.
Negotiations are underway with several airlines for multi-year fleet allocation contracts, some potentially impacting operations from late 2024. The new business model may also incorporate substantial cost reductions.
CEO Remarks
Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways, stated that further updates on the outcome of this strategic process will be shared later in the fall.
These changes reflect Norse’s proactive approach to adapting to market conditions and optimizing its business model for long-term sustainability.
The company has released its Q2 2024 report and presentation, providing detailed insights into its financial performance and strategic direction. These documents offer stakeholders a comprehensive view of Norse’s current position and plans in the evolving aviation market.
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