Flight Buzz
I Flew Premium Economy on 8-Hour Flight With Norse Airlines; Worth It

A few months ago, my procrastination caught up to me as I tried booking a last-minute flight home from Paris back to the US.
I’m typically a loyal Delta flyer, but I experienced sticker shock when I saw the prices of its last-minute economy flights back home.
So, although I don’t usually fly with budget airlines, I found myself researching flights on Norse Atlantic Airways.
The Norwegian airline is known for having affordable transatlantic flights, and its nonstop options to get me back to the US were hundreds of dollars cheaper than what I’d seen elsewhere.
So, I paid $670 for an eight-hour flight in premium from Paris to New York City. (From there, I’d take a cheap flight home to Texas.)
Although I was skeptical about the low prices — my premium Norse seat was still way cheaper than a similar flight in Delta’s economy section — I ended up being pleasantly surprised.
My ticket came with priority check-in, which I loved
Katherine Stinson
I chose to upgrade to a premium ticket because economy didn’t include amenities I wanted and would otherwise have to pay out of pocket for, like meals and a checked bag.
Fortunately, my premium ticket even came with priority check-in, which I was very grateful to have.
When I arrived at my gate at Charles de Gaulle, the check-in line for my flight looked incredibly long. Instead of waiting with the masses, I used my status to quickly board the shuttle bus to the plane.
I was pleasantly surprised by how spacious my seat felt
Katherine Stinson
Norse doesn’t have first-class cabins — its Boeing 787 Dreamliners are divided into premium and economy.
Walking to my seat didn’t take long, and I breathed a sigh of relief when I saw how spacious my premium-cabin seat looked.
The seat pitch is 43 inches and the width is 19.5 inches, much larger compared to the 31-inch seat pitch and 17-inch width in economy class.
My seat was so comfortable that I had no issues relaxing. I also had tons of extra legroom, though not having enough is rarely an issue for me at 5’1″.
Katherine Stinson
Still, it was nice having so much space that my feet didn’t even accidentally kick my bag, which was tucked under the seat in front of me.
In premium, the in-flight entertainment screen could be pulled out from the armrest. On it, Norse offered an assortment of movies, TV shows, and music. I opted to watch “Gilmore Girls.”
The screen was easy to maneuver, and I liked that I could tuck it away when I wasn’t using it.
The flight had fairly standard amenities — but I couldn’t reach some of the seat controls
The flight attendants came by and handed everyone in my cabin a complimentary set of headphones, earplugs, an eye mask, and a soft Norse blanket.
I didn’t have to pay for my sodas, water, wine, or two in-flight meals since they were included in my premium upgrade.
At one point, flight attendants even came by the premium section and offered to top off my wine, free of charge. It was such a nice touch.
Katherine Stinson
Although the spacious premium seats provided plenty of room for me to curl up and nap, I couldn’t reach the buttons to control the fans or reading lights.
Unfortunately, I wouldn’t have been able to reach the call button from my seat, either.
I also had to ask for help retrieving my carry-on when the plane arrived in New York.
On other airlines, I’ve been able to stand on my tip-toes to grab my luggage, but I would have needed a stepladder to grab my things from Norse’s bulkheads.
None of that was a major issue, but it’s something worth keeping in mind if you’re a similar height.
I’d fly internationally with Norse again — and I’d stick with my upgrade
All in all, the low-cost airline impressed me. I was especially grateful I’d splurged for a premium ticket, even though economy ones were hundreds of dollars cheaper.
The extra space alone (not to mention the checked bag, food, drinks, and priority check-in) made the upgrade well worth it.
Prices may vary (especially for last-minute bookings), but I’m still impressed that my upgraded Norse Atlantic ticket cost me less than what I’d have paid to fly Delta in economy.
Plus, my overall experience was more pleasant than I expected.
My seat felt pretty top-notch for a low-cost carrier, and I commend the entire staff for being so friendly, helpful, and welcoming throughout the flight.
However, I won’t be committing my loyalty to Norse Airlines anytime soon. It has a limited selection of routes, no direct flights to my home airport in Texas, and no frequent-flyer rewards program.
So, for now, I think I’ll stick with Delta and rack up miles for future rewards — but if I end up needing another short-notice international flight, I’d definitely fly premium with Norse Airlines.
Flight Buzz
Airline’s passengers can change flights for free due to weather warning

A spokesperson for the airline said: ‘In view of the weather warning forecast for Monday and Tuesday across Scotland, Northern Ireland, Republic or Ireland, the Isle of Man and some of the North of England and the potential for travel disruption, we are offering customers the opportunity to adjust travel plans without charge.
Flight Buzz
AirAsia X Launches New Direct Flights from Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur, Connecting Uzbekistan with Southeast Asia and Beyond Starting October 2025

Saturday, August 2, 2025
In a significant move for Central Asian connectivity, AirAsia X (D7), renowned for its affordable air travel services, has announced the introduction of direct flights from Tashkent (TAS), Uzbekistan, to Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Malaysia. Starting from October 15, 2025, this new service will run three times a week, directly linking the bustling capital of Uzbekistan to one of Southeast Asia’s major international hubs. The direct flights are poised to stimulate increased tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges between Malaysia and Uzbekistan while enhancing AirAsia X’s reach into emerging Central Asian markets.
This move represents a strategic expansion into the region, further cementing AirAsia X’s position as a major low-cost carrier catering to medium-haul destinations. The flights will connect Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur, opening up opportunities for seamless travel to over 130 destinations worldwide through AirAsia X’s Fly-Thru network. With strong forward bookings and a growing demand for both leisure and business travel, this new route is set to become a key bridge linking Uzbekistan’s rich history and culture to the vibrant economic hubs across Southeast Asia and beyond.
AirAsia X’s new service also aligns with Uzbekistan’s ambitious tourism goals, with the country aiming to attract 15.8 million visitors in 2025. The Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur route will help showcase the fascinating blend of ancient and modern Uzbekistan, attracting more international tourists, business professionals, and students eager to explore the growing opportunities within the country.
AirAsia X Expands Network with New Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur Flights: All You Need to Know
- Direct Flights to Tashkent: AirAsia X will operate direct flights between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur three times a week.
- Flexible Flight Schedule: Flights will run every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, providing convenient options for both leisure and business travelers.
- Promotional Fares: One-way fares start from USD 199, offering affordable travel between the two destinations.
- Extended Connectivity: The new route strengthens AirAsia X’s Fly-Thru network, offering passengers access to over 130 destinations worldwide.
Why Tashkent?
Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital, serves as a historical and economic hub, merging over two millennia of history with modern urban growth. Visitors are drawn to the city’s rich cultural heritage, which includes striking Soviet-era architecture, historic Islamic landmarks, and bustling traditional bazaars. Tashkent is not only the political and cultural heart of Uzbekistan but also a strategic city for expanding tourism and business in the region.
AirAsia X’s Expanding Influence in Central Asia
The launch of direct flights to Tashkent is part of AirAsia X’s broader expansion strategy into Central Asia. The airline’s successful entry into Almaty, Kazakhstan, in 2024 has been met with positive reception, prompting further service expansion into neighboring Uzbekistan. As the largest city in Central Asia, Tashkent is the ideal gateway to foster greater connectivity between the region and major global markets.
With the newly introduced Kuala Lumpur-Tashkent flights, AirAsia X not only enhances its position as the world’s best low-cost airline but also contributes to regional economic growth. The new route provides Uzbek travelers with direct access to destinations across Southeast Asia, Australia, and East Asia, strengthening cultural and business exchanges.
AirAsia X Tashkent Route Details: What Travelers Can Expect
- Flight Schedule: The flights will operate three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
- Flight D7123: Departs Tashkent at 19:30, arriving in Kuala Lumpur at 06:10 the following day.
- Return Flight D7122: Departs Kuala Lumpur at 13:25, arriving in Tashkent at 18:15.
- Promotional Fares: To mark the launch of the new route, AirAsia X is offering promotional one-way fares starting from USD 199 (approximately UZS 2,719,000). This special offer is available until August 3, 2025, and covers travel between October 15 and December 15, 2025.
- Flight Convenience: The direct flights will reduce travel time, providing a faster and more convenient option for business travelers, students, and tourists.
- Baggage and Amenities: The fare includes a 7KG cabin baggage allowance, fuel surcharge, and applicable taxes and fees.
Connecting Cultures: The Importance of the New Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur Route
The new AirAsia X flight service between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur underscores the growing importance of strengthening bilateral ties between Uzbekistan and Malaysia. Both nations have a rich cultural heritage, and the new service is expected to bolster cooperation in key sectors such as education, trade, tourism, and even Islamic tourism.
Uzbekistan, with its unique mix of Central Asian traditions, and Malaysia, with its diverse cultural landscape, have much to offer to each other. The Tashkent-Kuala Lumpur route is poised to foster stronger people-to-people connections, offering easier access for Malaysian tourists to explore Uzbekistan’s historical sites, including the iconic Registan Square, the ancient city of Samarkand, and the peaceful city of Bukhara. Meanwhile, travelers from Uzbekistan will now have direct access to Southeast Asia’s most dynamic destinations, from vibrant Kuala Lumpur to the pristine beaches of Thailand and Indonesia.
Furthermore, with AirAsia X’s Fly-Thru connectivity, travelers can seamlessly transfer to over 130 destinations worldwide, making Tashkent a significant international transit point. The new flight will not only serve the growing number of leisure and business travelers between the two countries but will also drive tourism in Central Asia, a region with rich historical sites yet relatively underexplored by global travelers.
Tashkent: A City of Heritage and Growth
Tashkent is often referred to as the “City of Peace” and stands as a gateway to the ancient Silk Road. Visitors can enjoy exploring the city’s fascinating blend of the old and the new, with historical landmarks such as the Amir Timur Square, the Hazrat Imam Complex, and the Kukeldash Madrasah. These sites are a testament to Uzbekistan’s deep Islamic and cultural heritage.
Beyond the historical sights, Tashkent has also embraced modern development. The city is home to contemporary shopping malls, stylish hotels, and a burgeoning culinary scene, offering a perfect mix of traditional and modern attractions. With its central location, Tashkent is the ideal starting point for travelers exploring the wider region, including nearby mountains, lakes, and other scenic destinations in Uzbekistan.
Culinary Delights and Cultural Festivals in Tashkent
Tashkent’s food scene is a paradise for those keen on experiencing Central Asian flavors. Visitors can savor traditional Uzbek dishes such as plov (pilaf), shashlik (grilled meat skewers), and samsa (savory pastries). For a truly authentic experience, Tashkent’s vibrant bazaars offer a feast for the senses, where local produce, spices, and handcrafted goods are available in abundance.
Cultural events also play an essential role in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Festivals like Navruz, celebrating the Persian New Year, and the Sharq Taronalari International Music Festival, draw international visitors every year, showcasing the country’s music, dance, and arts.
The Best Time to Visit Tashkent
The best time to visit Tashkent is during the spring and autumn months, from April to June and September to November. The weather during these periods is mild, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Visitors can enjoy the city’s parks, gardens, and outdoor markets during these seasons, making it an excellent time to explore.
Conclusion: New Flight Connections Open Opportunities for Central Asia’s Growth
With AirAsia X’s new direct flights from Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur, Uzbekistan has a direct link to one of Southeast Asia’s busiest hubs. This new route represents not only an increase in tourism and business travel but also an opportunity for cultural exchange between Malaysia and Uzbekistan. As the world increasingly looks to Central Asia for new opportunities, the addition of Tashkent to AirAsia X’s network will undoubtedly help unlock the region’s vast potential for growth and global connectivity.
Flight Buzz
Air France, British, Austrian, KLM, ITA, Lufthansa, and other Airlines Experience Major Travel Disruptions as Over 60 Flights Are Grounded Across Airports in Russia, UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, and More

Saturday, August 2, 2025
Air travel in Europe has been severely disrupted due to adverse weather conditions, impacting Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, Lufthansa and many others. Over 60 flights have been canceled and dozens of other flights have been delayed. Russian, British, Portuguese, Spanish and Italian airports, and many more, have been impacted by storms, heavy rainfall, and low visibility. These conditions have resulted in many people being stuck for long periods of time. These airlines continue to operate in Europe and the constant flow of aircraft is hampered by the current weather issues.
Bad weather continues to wreak havoc on air travel in Europe, with numerous airlines experiencing major flight disruptions. Over 60 flights have been grounded today at various airports across Russia, the UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, and Italy. These cancellations and delays have affected several major airlines, including Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, Lufthansa, and many others. Passengers are facing significant disruptions as they navigate through storms and adverse weather conditions.
Today, over 60 flights were grounded across major European airports, with disruptions affecting airlines such as Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, and Lufthansa. At Pulkovo, 18 cancellations (8%) and 2 delays (0%) impacted Rossiya Airlines, while Sheremetyevo saw 14 cancellations (6%) and 76 delays (11%), mostly affecting Aeroflot. Vnukovo reported 10 cancellations (23%) and 13 delays (0%), with Rossiya Airlines and UTair most impacted. Heathrow had 5 cancellations (0%) and 59 delays (5%), while Schiphol experienced 6 cancellations (0%) and 183 delays (15%), with KLM and easyJet hit hardest. Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado had 2 cancellations (33%) and 49 delays (10%), primarily affecting TAP Air Portugal. Other airports, including Barcelona, Nice, Dublin, Brussels, and Venice, also reported significant delays and cancellations due to severe weather across Russia, the UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, Belgium, and Italy. The disruptions highlight the ongoing challenges of weather-related flight operations in Europe.
Major Airlines Affected by Weather Chaos
Among the airlines impacted by today’s disruptions, Air France, British Airways, Austrian Airlines, KLM, ITA Airways, and Lufthansa are some of the most notable names. These carriers are among the largest in Europe and operate numerous international routes. However, severe weather has forced them to ground flights, delay departures, and cause significant inconvenience for travelers.
The total number of grounded flights has been substantial, with airports such as Pulkovo, Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo, London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol, and others reporting major cancellations. In fact, as of today, more than 60 flights have been affected across various European airports. While the primary reason for these disruptions has been bad weather, the severity of the situation has made it clear how vulnerable the aviation industry is to such conditions.
Affected Airports
Pulkovo Airport (Russia)
At Pulkovo, 18 flights were canceled, and two additional flights were delayed. Among the most impacted carriers were Rossiya Airlines, which saw a significant percentage of its flights grounded (18 cancellations), and Aeroflot, which also faced disruptions. Other airlines such as Pegas Fly, Yamal Airlines, and My Freighter were also affected, although their cancellations and delays were lower in number.
Sheremetyevo International Airport (Russia)
Sheremetyevo, one of the busiest airports in Russia, reported 14 cancellations and 76 delays today. Aeroflot, the national carrier, was among the hardest hit, with 58 delayed flights. Other airlines such as Rossiya Airlines and Yamal Airlines also experienced delays, with several international carriers, including Beijing Capital Airlines, Air China, and China Southern Airlines, suffering cancellations and delays due to bad weather conditions.
Vnukovo Airport (Russia)
Vnukovo airport saw a relatively smaller impact with 10 cancellations and 13 delays. Rossiya Airlines again topped the list of affected airlines with 10 cancellations, while UTair, Azimuth, and FlyDubai were also impacted. While the disruptions were fewer compared to other airports, passengers traveling through this hub still faced delays and cancellations throughout the day.
London Heathrow Airport (UK)
Heathrow, one of the busiest international airports in the world, reported 59 delays and 5 cancellations. British Airways faced the brunt of these disruptions, with 37 delayed flights. Other airlines, including KLM, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, also reported cancellations and delays. International carriers like Air Baltic, Cathay Pacific, and Kenya Airways were similarly affected. Weather-related disruptions at Heathrow have led to long queues and frustrated passengers, as several flights were either canceled or delayed for several hours.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (Netherlands)
Amsterdam Schiphol, a major European hub, reported 183 delays and 6 cancellations today. KLM, the national carrier of the Netherlands, was the most affected airline, with over 100 delayed flights. Other airlines, including Delta Air Lines, Air France, Lufthansa, and easyJet, saw a significant number of flights delayed or canceled. Passengers at Schiphol faced a chaotic situation with long wait times and delays, as adverse weather conditions caused havoc on the runway schedules.
General Humberto Delgado Airport (Portugal)
Portugal’s busiest airport, General Humberto Delgado in Lisbon, reported 49 delays and 2 cancellations. TAP Air Portugal was the most impacted airline, with several delays across its routes. Other affected airlines included Air Canada, KLM, and Ryanair, as well as several smaller regional carriers. Portugal’s weather situation resulted in disruptions at this hub as well, affecting both domestic and international flights.
Barcelona International Airport (Spain)
In Spain, Barcelona International saw 83 delays and just 1 cancellation. EasyJet was the worst-hit airline, with several flights delayed. KLM, Ryanair, and Lufthansa also saw disruptions to their schedules. The flight cancellations were minimal, but delays were widespread, affecting travelers looking to make their way to and from Spain’s most popular airport.
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (France)
Nice Côte d’Azur, located in the south of France, reported 62 delays and 1 cancellation. The weather in the region caused major delays, particularly with airlines like easyJet and Air France. Other affected airlines included KLM, British Airways, and Lufthansa. While the number of cancellations was low, the airport saw numerous delayed flights, leading to crowded terminals and frustrated travelers.
Dublin International Airport (Ireland)
Dublin International reported 33 delays and 1 cancellation today. Ryanair, a low-cost carrier, was the most impacted, with 10 delays. Other airlines such as Aer Lingus, United, and Eurowings faced some disruptions as well, with a few flights either delayed or canceled due to the inclement weather.
Brussels Airport (Belgium)
Brussels saw 40 delays and 2 cancellations, with Brussels Airlines being the most affected carrier. Other airlines such as Air Canada, Aegean Airlines, and Vueling also experienced disruptions. Though the number of cancellations was low, delays were widespread across various international and regional flights.
Marco Polo International Airport (Italy)
At Marco Polo International in Venice, 26 delays and 1 cancellation were reported. EasyJet and KLM were among the airlines facing significant delays. Other airlines such as Ryanair and Lufthansa also had flights affected. The adverse weather in the region forced several flights to be delayed or canceled, leaving passengers stranded or unable to meet their schedules.
Bad Weather Continues to Disrupt Air Travel
The primary reason for these widespread cancellations and delays is the ongoing adverse weather conditions across Europe. Severe storms, heavy rainfall, and low visibility have made it impossible for several airlines to operate their flights on time. The storms have not only affected airports in major cities but also smaller regional hubs, making it a continent-wide issue.
Airlines are struggling to accommodate affected passengers, as delays and cancellations continue to stack up. While some airlines have been able to rebook passengers on later flights, others are unable to offer alternative solutions due to the scale of the disruptions. With bad weather expected to persist for the next few days, the situation could worsen before it improves.
Passenger Impact and Airport Response
Passengers at affected airports have reported long wait times, crowded terminals, and frustration as they attempt to rebook flights or find alternative transportation options. Airlines are offering compensation, including meal vouchers and hotel accommodations, for passengers stranded overnight. However, many travelers are still left scrambling for answers as the bad weather continues to wreak havoc.
Airport authorities across Europe have been working tirelessly to manage the situation, but the scale of the disruptions has proven difficult to handle. While efforts are being made to clear backlogs, it is clear that the ripple effect of these cancellations will continue for days to come. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on their flights and to expect further delays.
The Way Forward
As the weather conditions improve, it is hoped that airlines and airports will be able to return to normal operations. However, it will take time to clear the backlog of delayed and canceled flights. Airlines are working hard to get their schedules back on track, but passengers should expect ongoing disruptions until the storm passes.
In the meantime, travelers are encouraged to remain patient and stay informed about their flight status. While airlines and airports continue to battle adverse weather, it is essential to keep communication open and be prepared for potential changes in travel plans.
The severe weather situations in Europe have prompted more than 60 flight cancellations from major carriers like Air France, British, KLM and even Lufthansa. Airports in Russia, UK, Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland and Italy are still recovering from storms, excessive rain, and low visibility which has made air travel quite difficult.
The unexpected weather changes even today have shown how fragile the aviation industry is and how quickly they can be impacted due to unforeseen weather changes. Air France, British, Austrian, KLM, ITA, and even Lufthansa to name a few airlines are gravely impacted, with more than 60 flights being canceled from major air travel hubs in Russia, UK, Spain, France, and Italy. Weather disruptions like this remind us how important weather predictions are, as they allow airlines and airports to manage operations more smoothly, utilizing proper adaptability.
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