Published on
September 25, 2025
Norwegian, one of Scandinavia’s leading low-cost carriers, has announced an ambitious expansion of its Swedish flight network for Summer 2026 with the addition of three new direct international routes. The latest growth phase will see Stockholm Arlanda offering new connections to Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Hamburg (HAM), each running four times per week from May 13, 2026. Additionally, Göteborg Landvetter will get a much-anticipated new direct weekly route to Tirana (TIA) starting June 19, 2026. With these additions, Norwegian’s Swedish lineup totals more than sixty routes covering over fifty European and Mediterranean destinations, reinforcing Sweden’s role as a major hub in pan-European travel and tourism.
Strengthening Sweden’s International Air Connectivity
Norwegian’s decision to expand its Swedish operation comes amid rising demand for accessible, direct air travel and a robust resurgence of outbound and inbound tourism across Europe. The new routes represent significant milestones for both Stockholm Arlanda and Göteborg Landvetter airports, prioritizing popular cities and previously underserved destinations.
The launch of direct flights to Milan and Hamburg based at Stockholm Arlanda grants Swedish travelers, and tourists heading for Sweden, seamless access to two of Europe’s pivotal cultural and business centers. Milan, globally renowned for its fashion, cuisine, and art, is a magnet for both leisure and business travelers. Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest city and a key trading port, appeals not just to urban explorers but also to professionals and international conference attendees.
Göteborg–Tirana: Unlocking New Tourism Opportunities
The new weekly connection between Göteborg Landvetter and Tirana is a milestone for Sweden’s Albanian community, as well as for Swedish tourists seeking fresh and affordable travel options in the Balkans. Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital, is growing in prestige as a tourism hotspot thanks to its Mediterranean climate, dynamic nightlife, and proximity to stunning beaches and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
By offering direct access, Norwegian enhances both convenience and cultural exchange, opening up Albania as an emerging alternative for summer travelers interested in exploring less-traveled European destinations.
Airline Strategy: Responding to Travel Demand and Tourism Growth
Norwegian’s summer 2026 expansion is strategically timed to capture the peak travel season, a period vital for tourism-dependent economies and seasonal workforce mobility. The carrier’s model of frequent, reliable, and affordable direct connections supports the rebound in tourism that is driving economic recovery across the region post-pandemic.
The airline’s robust approach underscores Sweden’s role as a springboard for Northern European travelers heading south for summer and Mediterranean holidays, as well as inbound visitors discovering Scandinavia’s natural and cultural treasures.
Economic and Tourism Implications
Enhanced air connectivity translates into tangible economic benefits for both source and destination markets. Swedish tourism bodies anticipate that increased flight frequency and diversity will drive higher inbound visitations, longer stays, and wider distribution of tourism revenue. Businesses, cultural venues, and the hospitality sector in Sweden, Milan, Hamburg, and Tirana all stand to gain from enlarged catchment areas.
Additionally, tourism boards in emerging markets such as Albania can leverage new direct flights to boost international arrivals, supporting product development, infrastructure improvements, and global destination branding.
Norwegian’s Growing Presence: Numbers and Reach
By Summer 2026, Norwegian’s Swedish network will offer over sixty direct routes, linking Swedish cities to more than fifty unique international destinations. This extensive network draws on Sweden’s well-developed airport infrastructure, sophisticated tourism offering, and high traveler expectations for value and convenience.
For the Swedish tourism industry, Norwegian’s expansion serves as both a catalyst for growth and a testament to the enduring appeal of Sweden as a destination and transit point.
Travel and Booking InformationStockholm Arlanda to Milan Malpensa (MXP) and Hamburg (HAM): Four weekly flights from May 13, 2026Göteborg Landvetter to Tirana (TIA): Weekly flight from June 19, 2026
Travelers are encouraged to book early via official airline and airport channels to secure competitive fares and take advantage of increased capacity during peak periods.
Image Credit: Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA
