Considering an intra-europe flight on Norwegian Air (nonstop, better flight times than other options) but not sure about the reliability, potential hassle, extra fees to do a roll-on carryon suitcase, etc.
I'm not sure if they are considered a "budget airline" any more - like Spirit or EasyJet?
Any recent experiences or suggestions to share would be most welcome!
First thought: Don't. But that is just my opinion.
They are a low cost airline and the basic fare doesn't include much, so read the term and conditions carefully. And yes, you need to pay extra to bring a carryon suitcase.
From where to where are you planning to travel with them?
Norwegian Air Shuttle is the 3rd largest budget air carrier in Europe. We've flown on them a number of times without issue. They were flying inexpensive trans-Atlantic flights to the U.S., but the pandemic put a stop to that.
Go for it.
Just make sure your carry on luggage is within their size and weight limits. A couple of times I was picked out as an example to others in the line at check in lines for being over 1" with my 21" rolling bag..
I used them last week to fly Oslo to Berlin. First time flying with them. We did pay for one step up from basic airfare which bought us a checked and carry on bag each. Comparable service to EasyJet; you pay for extras like beverages. Flight was on time and our bags arrived too. We don’t have any other experience with them however my seat neighbor did mention they had a tendency to run late on flights.
Norwegian Air used to fly out of SFO....no longer. Flying from Oslo to Berlin ....that's a viable option, if time is the main concern.
There is also the ferry option from Oslo to Kiel, then by train to Berlin via Hamburg.
Norwegian wouldn’t be my first choice - they used to be good, but are less reliable these days. They are certainly no longer the third largest burger carrier as EasyJet, Ryanair, Vueling and Wizz Air to name a few are all bigger. However, if the times work best for you, try them. They are legally obliged to get you to your destination.
Paying for food and drinks on short haul flights is common and not just for the budget airlines - BA only offer water and a snack on short haul flights so you have to pay for a sandwich and a coffee.
