Norway's largest regional airline serving remote communities.
Founded
1934
Headquarters
Bodø, Norway
Widerøe is Norway's oldest and largest regional airline, founded in 1934. Operating primarily along the Norwegian coast and fjord regions, the airline plays a critical role in connecting small, remote communities that are often inaccessible by road or rail. It is particularly known for serving the Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) airports scattered across western and northern Norway.
The airline operates an extensive domestic route network and also serves select destinations in Scandinavia and Europe. Widerøe is majority-owned by a consortium of Norwegian investors following its separation from the SAS Group, which had been a major stakeholder for decades.
Widerøe is renowned for its Explore Norway pass, offering flexible travel across its network. The airline has a strong safety record and is deeply integrated into Norway's public service obligation (PSO) route system, which subsidizes essential air links to underserved regions.
Hubs & network
Widerøe's primary hub is Bergen Airport, Flesland, with significant operations also based at Oslo Airport, Gardermoen, and Bodø Airport.
Fleet
Widerøe operates a fleet primarily composed of Bombardier Dash 8 (DHC-8) turboprop aircraft in various series, with the airline also introducing Embraer E190-E2 jets for longer routes.
Notable facts
- ›Widerøe is the oldest airline in Norway, founded in 1934.
- ›The airline specializes in STOL operations at small fjord-side airports unique to Norway.
- ›Widerøe operates many routes under Norway's Public Service Obligation (PSO) system.
- ›SAS divested its majority stake in Widerøe in 2023, returning the airline to independent ownership.
- ›The airline's Explore Norway pass allows unlimited travel on its network for a fixed period.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
