What is ACMI and why does it help Norse Atlantic Airways?

ACMI stands for Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance. Under this model, Norse Atlantic Airways supplies the aircraft and operations, while the customer pays for guaranteed flying. It stabilises utilisation and revenue, reduces exposure to weak seasons and fuel swings on those aircraft, and allows management to focus scheduled flying on higher-yield weeks.

How many aircraft are included in the IndiGo ACMI deal, and what are the terms?

Six of Norse Atlantic Airways’ 12 Boeing 787-9s are placed with IndiGo on long-term ACMI. Each aircraft has 350 guaranteed block hours per month, improving utilisation and cash visibility. The agreement supports a hybrid strategy, balancing contracted income with selective scheduled routes that offer stronger yields during peak UK travel.

What does 21% unit revenue growth mean for investors?

Unit revenue growth measures revenue per available seat kilometre rising versus last year. A 21% gain suggests stronger pricing and better capacity discipline. For investors, it often signals healthier margins if costs remain in check. Coupled with a 99% load factor, it points to demand outpacing supply on Norse Atlantic Airways’ retained routes.

Will the IndiGo ACMI deal affect UK fares or seat availability?

With half the fleet on ACMI, Norse Atlantic Airways may keep fewer own-metal seats outside peak weeks, which could limit off-peak deals. However, steadier cash flows can support reliability and targeted summer capacity. Overall, UK travellers should expect tighter schedules but competitive peak-season options, especially on core transatlantic city pairs.

Global Market Insights

Norse Atlantic Airways, February 12: IndiGo ACMI Deal Halves 787 Fleet

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

Norse Atlantic Airways has shifted to a hybrid model, placing six of its 12 Boeing 787-9s on long-term ACMI with IndiGo at 350 guaranteed block hours per aircraft. The IndiGo ACMI deal cuts fuel and demand risk while keeping core routes for summer. Early 2026 data show 21% year-on-year unit revenue growth and a 99% load factor, pointing to steadier cash flows. For UK investors, the change may temper seasonality around transatlantic flying and improve visibility on earnings as schedules are finalised.