Flying with Norwegian Air Shuttle offers a variety of experiences, from budget-friendly fares to efficient in-flight services. In this detailed review, I will provide an honest assessment of my experience with the airline, covering everything from ticket booking to baggage handling and overall value for money. My goal is to offer potential travelers a clear picture of what to expect when flying with Norwegian Air Shuttle.
Booking & Website/App Experience with Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Norwegian Air Shuttle’s booking process is smooth and user-friendly, whether you choose to book via the website or their mobile app. I opted for the mobile app for convenience, and I found it intuitive, with clear instructions at every step. The interface allows users to quickly choose flight dates, cabin classes, and additional services like baggage and seat selection. The process of entering personal details and payment was straightforward, and the confirmation email came through without any delays.
The website, on the other hand, is quite robust, offering useful features such as live chat support, comprehensive FAQs, and the ability to track your booking. However, while the app provides a quick way to book tickets, it sometimes feels a little cluttered with too many prompts to encourage additional purchases such as priority boarding or extra baggage. This can feel like a subtle upsell attempt, though it’s not overly intrusive.
A small downside is the lack of a clear option to manage bookings in the app, which can be frustrating when trying to make changes, like modifying flight details. Overall, Norwegian Air Shuttle’s booking experience is solid, and the mobile app is efficient but could benefit from a little streamlining.
Check-in Process with Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
The check-in process with Norwegian Air Shuttle is largely digital. Online check-in opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure, and I was able to complete the process with ease via the mobile app. It’s a simple process of inputting your details, confirming your flight information, and receiving a mobile boarding pass.
However, this digital approach can have its hiccups. On one occasion, the mobile boarding pass didn’t load properly, forcing me to check in at the airport’s self-service kiosk. In this instance, the process at the kiosk was swift, though I did have to wait a bit in line at the airport before being able to use it. I noticed some passengers had difficulty navigating the check-in kiosks, particularly those unfamiliar with technology, which could cause delays.
There’s also the option of checking in at the counter, though lines at Norwegian’s counters can get long, especially during peak travel times. Additionally, the airline charges for seat selection during check-in unless you opt for a specific ticket class. While understandable for a low-cost carrier, the lack of complimentary seat assignments can be seen as a downside for those who value a free seat choice.
Airport Experience for Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Norwegian Air Shuttle operates primarily from major airports, with a strong presence in Europe, the United States, and a few other international hubs. My experience at the airport largely depends on the terminal and time of day, but Norwegian typically provides a smooth and well-signposted experience.
For the most part, the check-in area is clear, and signage is easily visible, directing passengers to either self-service kiosks or the check-in counters. The airline’s staff at the airport was polite and efficient, offering guidance and assistance when needed. However, a few travelers did experience difficulties with unclear baggage restrictions, resulting in delays as bags were weighed and repacked.
At security, there were no issues, but the boarding gate area is somewhat basic. Seating was available, but there could have been more comfortable seating options for a more relaxed pre-flight experience. However, the overall wait time was reasonable, and the boarding process was quick and organized, with staff ensuring that the queue moved efficiently.
Punctuality of Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
One of the standout features of Norwegian Air Shuttle is its punctuality. My flight was on time both ways, with minimal delays. The airline has a strong track record for punctuality, with many of their flights departing and arriving on time. Passengers consistently report that delays are minimal and when they do happen, the airline tends to provide timely updates.
Delays at Norwegian Air Shuttle are rare, but when they do occur, they typically involve minor operational issues or weather-related concerns. Norwegian does a commendable job keeping passengers informed about any potential delays and, more importantly, ensuring that these disruptions are kept to a minimum.
In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness of Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Norwegian Air Shuttle provides an overall comfortable in-flight experience, especially considering its status as a low-cost carrier. The seats are standard, with adequate legroom for most passengers, though taller individuals may find the seats a bit cramped. The ergonomics of the seats are decent for a short to medium-haul flight, but they’re not the most luxurious or plush compared to other major carriers.
The cleanliness of the aircraft was excellent. Both the cabin and the bathrooms were well-maintained throughout the flight. The cabin crew ensured that the aisles were clear, trash was picked up promptly, and surfaces were wiped down regularly. Despite the compact space, the interior felt tidy and fresh, and I noticed staff working hard to maintain cleanliness during the flight.
In-flight Services of Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
In-flight services are generally excellent for a low-cost carrier, with Norwegian Air Shuttle offering a range of paid options for food, drinks, and entertainment. The airline provides free Wi-Fi on certain routes, although the speed is often inconsistent. Passengers who opt to pay for a better connection can access a more reliable service. In terms of entertainment, Norwegian offers an extensive on-demand service, including movies, TV shows, and music, but again, the quality of service is variable depending on your route.
The cabin crew is friendly and attentive. They ensure that passengers feel comfortable, and they are quick to respond to requests. However, as with many low-cost carriers, they often have to push sales for food and beverages throughout the flight, which can become a little repetitive. Despite this, their approach remains polite and non-intrusive.
Baggage Handling of Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Baggage handling is typically efficient, though there are occasional reports of delays. My checked luggage arrived on time, but I have heard mixed feedback from other passengers regarding baggage delays and handling. Some travelers have reported that their luggage arrived late or was handled roughly, though such issues are relatively rare.
The baggage policies are fairly standard for a low-cost airline, with fees charged for checked bags, and a limit on the number of carry-on items. While Norwegian’s baggage fees are competitive with other budget carriers, the restrictions can be quite strict, so passengers should be prepared to pack efficiently to avoid extra charges.
Value for Money of Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Norwegian Air Shuttle offers great value for money, especially on short- to medium-haul flights. Ticket prices are competitive and frequently include promotions that allow travelers to secure low-cost fares. For the price, Norwegian provides a well-rounded travel experience, with on-time flights, decent in-flight services, and clean, comfortable cabins.
While certain additional services, such as food and seat selection, come at an extra charge, the overall cost of flying with Norwegian is often lower than with traditional carriers. However, travelers should be prepared for add-ons that could increase the final ticket price. The airline does offer various packages that can bundle additional services for those who want more comfort and flexibility.
Overall Experience of Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
My overall experience with Norwegian Air Shuttle was positive. From booking to landing, I found the airline to offer solid value, efficient service, and reliable punctuality. The aircraft was clean, the staff was courteous, and the in-flight amenities were sufficient for a short- to medium-haul flight. While there are a few areas where Norwegian could improve, such as its baggage handling and the occasional upselling during check-in, the airline excels in its affordability, punctuality, and comfort.
Final Verdict of Norwegian Air Shuttle
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
In conclusion, Norwegian Air Shuttle is a great option for travelers looking for an affordable and reliable airline. While it may not offer the luxury of some full-service airlines, it delivers excellent value for money, with decent seating, cleanliness, and in-flight services. Punctuality is a strong point for the airline, and its app and website are generally user-friendly, though minor improvements could be made.
Norwegian is particularly well-suited for short- to medium-haul flights, offering competitive pricing and efficient operations. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler and don’t mind paying extra for certain amenities, Norwegian Air Shuttle is a solid choice for your next trip.