Reference is made to the stock exchange announcements dated 6 July 2023 on the
agreement by Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA ("Norwegian") to acquire Widerøe AS
("Widerøe").
The Norwegian Competition Authority ("NCA") has today notified Norwegian that it
will continue its review ("Phase II") of the proposed acquisition of Widerøe by
Norwegian. The NCA will now continue with its assessment into the potential
effects of the proposed transaction to determine whether it is likely to
significantly impede effective competition. The NCA has until 17 November 2023
to present its preliminary view for the parties' comments. The final deadline
for the NCAs review will expire on 3 January 2024. The NCA may however at any
stage during its continued review close its investigation if it finds that the
criteria for intervention are not met. Both Norwegian and Widerøe will continue
to cooperate closely with the NCA and provide all relevant information in order
to have the transaction approved as soon as possible.
"We take note of today's decision by the Norwegian Competition Authority to
continue its review of the acquisition and understand that the NCA wishes to use
more time on examining the consequences of the transaction. Having operated side
by side for many years, we believe that by acquiring Widerøe, we will be able to
create a streamlined and more comprehensive offer for air travel across Norway
and abroad. We strongly believe on a positive outcome in this matter," said Geir
Karlsen, CEO of Norwegian.
For further information, please contact:
Jesper M. Hatletveit, Investor Relations at Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA Tel: +47
906 64 401
Fornebu, 15 September 2023
Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA
This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section
5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.