Norwegian Air Shuttle to Provide High-Speed Broadband for its Passengers and Crew

FORNEBU, Norway, April 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA, Europe’s fifth largest low-cost carrier, announced today that it is equipping its entire fleet with high-speed in-flight broadband. The airline will use a satellite-based broadband solution from Row 44.

Norwegian, winner of Air Transport World’s 2009 Market Leadership Award, will be the first European airline to equip its fleet with high-speed in-flight broadband. Norwegian will be able to offer passengers uninterrupted broadband services—Internet browsing, live international television, movies, music, mobile phones, texting, and e-commerce—to all of the airline’s 84 destinations across Europe. In addition to its current fleet, Norwegian has orders for nearly 50 new planes—all of which the airline will equip with Row 44’s broadband service.

“Norwegian has become one of the most successful carriers by relentlessly adding value to our passengers’ travel experience,� said Bjorn Kjos, CEO of Norwegian. Row 44’s system will help us add exciting new productivity and entertainment services to our flights—creating more satisfied and loyal passengers and crew, giving Norwegian a strong competitive advantage, and adding significantly to our bottom line.�

“Norwegian Air Shuttle is widely considered one of the most innovative, agile, and forward-thinking airlines in the world. They are an extremely strong organization led by disciplined, insightful professionals. Norwegian is known for creating and rapidly deploying new capabilities that delight their passengers,� said John Guidon, Row 44’s CEO. “Row 44 is honored that Norwegian has chosen our in-flight broadband to enhance their passenger and crew experience and create a powerful new profit center.�

Row 44 will begin installing its broadband system on Norwegian planes in the fourth quarter of 2009.

About Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA

Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA is a low-fare, point-to-point airline, registered on the Oslo Stock Exchange, employing approx. 1500 people. Norwegian operates a total of 175 routes to 83 destinations. In 2008 Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA transported 9.1 million passengers. The company’s headquarters are located at Fornebu, outside Oslo.