Norwegian Air Shuttle Pilot Career Guide
Scandinavia's largest low-cost carrier, operating short and medium-haul routes across Europe.
First Officer Salary
NOK 450,000 - NOK 700,000
Captain Salary
NOK 900,000 - NOK 1,300,000
Salary Progression
Year 1 FO
NOK 500,000 (≈US$47,000)
Year 5 FO
NOK 650,000 (≈US$61,000)
Year 10 Captain
NOK 1,100,000 (≈US$103,000)
Year 20 Captain
NOK 1,250,000 (≈US$117,000)
Bonuses & Perks
Limited variable compensation. Overtime at enhanced rates. Summer peak supplements.
Retirement
Norwegian OTP (Obligatorisk Tjenestepensjon) mandatory occupational pension with employer contributions.
Pilot Reviews & Ratings
Based on pilot forum data
Pros
- Scandinavian work-life balance and labor protections
- Post-restructuring airline is leaner and more financially stable
- Single fleet type (737 MAX) simplifies operations
- Norwegian bases offer high quality of life
- Growing route network across Europe
Cons
- Pay below legacy Scandinavian carriers
- Airline went through severe restructuring during COVID
- No long-haul flying after fleet reduction (787 retired)
- Norwegian taxes reduce take-home pay significantly
- Limited career progression beyond Boeing 737
Fleet & Routes
| Aircraft | Count | Routes |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing 737 MAX 8 | 70 | Scandinavian and European |
Interview & Selection Process
Online application through Norwegian careers
License and type rating verification
Technical assessment on Boeing 737 systems
Interview with training and management
Simulator check on Boeing 737 MAX
Medical and background verification
Pilot Lifestyle
Work Schedule
5/4 roster pattern typical. Scandinavian labor protections apply. No overnight layovers on most routes.
Home Base
Oslo is the main base. Multiple Scandinavian bases available.
Travel Benefits
Discounted Norwegian flights. Limited interline travel. Staff standby fares.
Commutable?
Limited — may require relocation
Hubs & Pilot Bases
Main Hubs
Pilot Bases
Union & Representation
Pilots at Norwegian Air Shuttle are represented by Norwegian Pilot Union (NPU) / Parat.
Latest Developments
Norwegian restructured from long-haul carrier to focused European LCC
All 787 Dreamliners returned as airline pivoted to short-haul only
Financial recovery strong with profitability restored post-restructuring
Pilot Requirements
EASA ATPL
Class 1 medical
Boeing 737 type rating
Scandinavian language preferred
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