New York City to Oslo for only $150 round trip! An Airfare alert hits the screen. Your first reaction is to book the flight but then you think, what’s the catch?

While many discount airlines are offering unbelievable deals on airfares, often times you get what you pay for. I like to do a little background check before clicking on the reservation button.

With Norwegian Air, not only did I keep my doubts aside (on time departures, no lost luggage, great meals and friendly service), I actually had a better flying experience than I have had in a long time.

1. FAST AND AFFORDABLE

Little did I know that Norwegian is not only cheap, they have better planes than many of the well known brands in the airline industry. I flew the brand new 787 Dreamliner from New York to London in only five hours. The flight was so quite and smooth that I didn’t even realize when it took off and never felt the need to put on my noise cancellation headphones. The 787 Dreamliner is a faster airplane that consumes less fuel. The best part is, Norwegian decided to pass the fuel cost savings to their consumers, therefore the flights are much more affordable.

2. MORE LEG ROOM

There are only two classes offered on Norwegian – Economy and Premium. The main difference between the two is the number of seats per row, allowing for extra room, as well as superior meal service. The Premium seat (there are only five rows) I was in, reclined enough to stretch my legs and each seat had its own charging area with USB and electric outlets. Expanded overhead bins had more room for carry on bags, so there’s no hassle of looking for storage space.

3. SMARTER PLANES

The interior of the 787 Dreamliner plane is designed to reduce jet lag and keep the air well circulated. Clever cabin lighting system changes with the time zone. Electro chromatic window system allows each passenger to control how much light they want to come in. If you wish to take a nap, you can block the sun out completely and make the window appear dark. The viewing area is also 65% more than other planes.

Norwegian has 30 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on order for its long-haul operations, so you are more likely to fly on a new plane. 

4. FREE WIFI

Perhaps the biggest perk for 21st century travelers is that all Norwegian Air flights within Europe offer free wifi to all passengers. I used it on the London-Helsinki leg and had no issues connecting with my iPhone and laptop.

5. MODERN ENTERTAINMENT

Flat screen televisions on Norwegian are easy on the eyes and touch screen enabled, though the selection of movies and games is limited. Though with free wifi, you can connect your device online and watch movies, chat with friends or get some work done.

6. HEALTHY MEALS

Most airline food these days (specially in coach) is rather inedible. Norwegian Air offers fresh and healthy choices such as salads, fruit, fish, sandwiches, and vegetarian pasta. Passengers can pre order meals in short haul economy (flights under 1 hour 20 minutes). Snacks are also available for purchase (Visa and MasterCard only) through the TV monitor.

7. NO DISCRIMINATION

Norwegian is an upscale discount airline, which may not appeal to business and luxury passengers. The seats are comfortable throughout the plane and not much special attention is given to one class over the other. There is no champagne on arrival or designer amenity kits. Expect to receive only a cozy blanket and headphones, and great service of course.

8. CARE FOR THE PLANET

Norwegian Air started in 1993 and is voted the best value environment friendly airline. They are the third largest low-cost carrier in Europe with 5,500 employees and operate over 400 routes to more than 130 destinations across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Thailand, the Caribbean and the US. Norwegian is remarkably dedicated to the environment and focuses on how airlines can contribute to less pollution and emissions by flying new and fuel efficient aircrafts.

As a spokesperson for sustainable travel, I am personally impressed by Norwegian’ dedication to sustaining the planet, while running a profitable business. As a frequent traveler, I like the fact that there is a reliable flying option that can take me to my destination faster, cheaper, and more comfortably.