Norwegian Air, Europe’s leading low-cost carrier and an expanding global budget airline, has received the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the national aviation authorities of Argentina. With this certification, Norwegian Air Argentina is recognized as a commercial airline and must comply with Argentina’s safety and operational standards for scheduled air services.
Norwegian Air Argentina launched in March 2017, and on December 11, 2017, the Argentine government allocated 152 inaugural routes to carriers, including Norwegian: 72 domestic and 80 international services. The airline took delivery of its first aircraft, a Boeing 737-800, on January 15, and was formally issued its AOC on January 26. This approval clears the way for Norwegian Air Argentina to begin scheduled operations to and from Argentina, supporting Norwegian’s expansion in the South American market and its broader growth as a low-fare international airline.
Buenos Aires (EZE) will serve as Norwegian Air Argentina’s initial base of operations in South America. Following that launch, the carrier plans to connect the region to nearby destinations, with the closest airports slated to receive services including Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe (PTP) and Fort-de-France in Martinique (FDF).
By establishing an AOC in Argentina and adding regional routes, Norwegian aims to offer more affordable travel options across South America while maintaining the safety and quality standards required by national aviation regulators. The airline’s entry into Argentina expands choices for travelers and strengthens competition on both domestic and international corridors originating from Buenos Aires.