Key Takeaways
• Since July 4, 2025, Norwegian Air Shuttle adds unscheduled Krakow stop on Belgrade–Oslo flights.
• Passengers can book standalone routes Belgrade–Krakow and Krakow–Oslo, expanding travel options.
• No official reason given; likely technical or operational needs, weather, or regulatory issues.
Travelers flying between Belgrade and Oslo with Norwegian Air Shuttle are facing a new development this July: all flights on this route now make a stop in Krakow. This change, which began on July 4, 2025, was not announced in advance and has left many passengers and travel industry professionals with questions. Here’s what you need to know about this operational shift, why it might be happening, and how it could affect your travel plans.
What’s Happening: Norwegian Air Shuttle’s New Stop in Krakow
Since July 4, 2025, every Norwegian Air Shuttle flight from Belgrade (BEG) to Oslo (OSL) has included a stop at Krakow Airport (KRK). This adjustment was not part of the airline’s published schedule earlier in the year and came as a surprise to many. Flight tracking data confirms that, for example, flight DY1955 (NOZ1955) operated the Belgrade–Krakow segment, and DY5KH (NOZ5KH) continued from Krakow to Oslo on July 7, 2025.
Norwegian Air Shuttle’s booking system now shows Belgrade–Krakow and Krakow–Belgrade as available routes, suggesting that these stops are being formally integrated into the system, at least for now. This means travelers can book flights directly between Belgrade and Krakow, or Krakow and Oslo, opening up new travel options.
Why Did This Change Happen?
As of July 8, 2025, neither Norwegian Air Shuttle nor Krakow Airport has released an official statement explaining the reason for these unscheduled stops. However, aviation experts point to several possible causes for such operational changes:
- Technical or operational needs: Sometimes, airlines need to stop for refueling, crew changes, or to rotate aircraft.
- Regulatory or airspace issues: Changes in airspace rules or restrictions can force airlines to adjust their routes.
- Passenger demand and load factors: Airlines may add stops to pick up more passengers or make routes more profitable.
- Temporary airport restrictions: If there are issues at Oslo or Belgrade airports, such as construction or limited runway access, a stopover may be necessary.
- Weather disruptions or maintenance: Bad weather or unexpected maintenance needs can also lead to route changes.
Without an official explanation, it’s not possible to say exactly why Norwegian Air Shuttle added the Krakow stop. As reported by VisaVerge.com, such changes are often temporary and may be reversed once the underlying issue is resolved.
How Does This Affect Passengers?
If you’re flying from Belgrade to Oslo with Norwegian Air Shuttle, you should expect your flight to stop in Krakow until further notice. Here’s what this means for your travel experience:
- Longer travel times: The extra stop in Krakow will likely add time to your journey. Make sure to check your updated flight itinerary and allow for possible delays.
- New booking options: You can now book direct flights between Belgrade and Krakow, or Krakow and Oslo, which may be convenient if you’re planning to visit Poland 🇵🇱 or need to connect to other flights from Krakow.
- Check-in and boarding: It’s important to find out whether you’ll need to get off the plane in Krakow or stay on board during the stop. This information should be provided by the airline at the gate or by the cabin crew.
- Connecting flights: If you have a connecting flight from Oslo, allow extra time in case the stop in Krakow causes delays.
- Flight status updates: Always check your flight status before you travel. Norwegian Air Shuttle provides real-time updates on their official flight status page.
What Should Passengers Do Next?
To avoid surprises and make your journey smoother, here are some practical steps you can take:
- Check your booking: Log in to your Norwegian Air Shuttle account or visit their website to confirm your flight details and see if your itinerary includes a stop in Krakow.
- Stay informed: Subscribe to flight updates through Norwegian’s official channels. This way, you’ll get notifications about any changes or delays.
- Ask at the airport: When you check in or arrive at the gate, ask the staff if you need to disembark in Krakow or if you can remain on the plane.
- Plan for extra time: If you have tight connections in Oslo, consider rebooking to allow for a longer layover.
- Contact customer service: If you have questions or need help, reach out to Norwegian Air Shuttle’s customer service through their official website.
Background: Norwegian Air Shuttle’s Route History
Norwegian Air Shuttle is a well-known low-cost airline in Europe, offering flights between major cities like Belgrade, Oslo, and Krakow. Before July 2025, the Belgrade–Oslo route was a direct flight, making it a popular choice for travelers between Serbia 🇷🇸 and Norway 🇳🇴. The sudden addition of a Krakow stop is a new development and was not included in the airline’s published schedules earlier in the year.
Krakow Airport (KRK) is a major hub in southern Poland 🇵🇱, serving millions of passengers each year. Its location makes it a convenient stopover point for flights between Eastern and Northern Europe.
Possible Reasons for the Krakow Stop: Expert Analysis
Aviation experts suggest several reasons why Norwegian Air Shuttle might have added a stop in Krakow:
- Operational efficiency: Stopping in Krakow could help the airline manage crew schedules, refuel, or rotate aircraft more efficiently.
- Passenger demand: There may be increased demand for travel between Belgrade and Krakow, or Krakow and Oslo, making the stop financially attractive.
- Regulatory issues: Changes in airspace rules or airport restrictions could force the airline to adjust its routes.
- Weather or maintenance: If there are weather problems or maintenance needs at Oslo or Belgrade, a stop in Krakow could help keep the schedule on track.
- Temporary airport issues: Construction or other temporary problems at Oslo or Belgrade airports could make a direct flight impossible for now.
Without an official statement, these remain educated guesses. Airlines often make such changes for a mix of reasons, and the situation can change quickly.
Implications for Stakeholders
This operational change affects several groups:
- Passengers: Some travelers may welcome the new direct options between Belgrade and Krakow, while others may be frustrated by longer travel times or the need to change planes.
- Norwegian Air Shuttle: The airline may benefit from increased ticket sales on the new route segments, but could also face complaints from passengers about delays or confusion.
- Krakow Airport: The airport may see increased passenger traffic and revenue from the new stop, but also needs to manage the extra flights and passengers.
- Travel agents and tour operators: These professionals need to update their clients about the new route structure and help them adjust their travel plans.
Practical Tips for Travelers
If you’re planning to fly on this route, here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Double-check your itinerary: Make sure you know whether your flight includes a stop in Krakow and how long the stop will be.
- Pack snacks and entertainment: The extra stop may mean a longer journey, so bring something to eat and keep yourself entertained.
- Stay flexible: Travel plans can change quickly, especially when airlines adjust their schedules. Be ready to adapt if your flight is delayed or rerouted.
- Know your rights: If your flight is delayed or you miss a connection because of the new stop, you may be entitled to compensation under European Union passenger rights rules. You can learn more about your rights on the European Union’s official passenger rights page.
- Keep important documents handy: Make sure you have your passport, boarding passes, and any necessary visas ready, especially if you need to disembark in Krakow.
What Does This Mean for Immigration and Border Control?
For most travelers on the Belgrade–Oslo route, the stop in Krakow should not require additional visas or border checks if they remain in the transit area and do not enter Poland 🇵🇱. However, if you are required to disembark and pass through border control, you may need to show your passport and, in some cases, a visa.
- Schengen Area rules: Both Norway 🇳🇴 and Poland 🇵🇱 are part of the Schengen Area, which allows for passport-free travel between member countries. However, Serbia 🇷🇸 is not part of Schengen, so travelers from Belgrade may need to show their documents when entering Krakow.
- Transit passengers: If you stay on the plane or in the transit area, you usually do not need to clear border control in Krakow. If you leave the transit area, you may be subject to entry requirements for Poland 🇵🇱.
- Visa requirements: Check the official Schengen visa information page to see if you need a visa for Poland or Norway.
Summary Table: Norwegian Belgrade–Oslo Route (July 2025)
| Route Segment | Status as of July 8, 2025 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Belgrade–Oslo (Direct) | Suspended/Modified | Now includes stop in Krakow |
| Belgrade–Krakow | Active | Bookable as standalone route |
| Krakow–Oslo | Active | Continuation of Belgrade-origin flights |
What’s Next? Will the Krakow Stop Become Permanent?
At this time, it’s unclear whether the stop in Krakow will be a long-term change or just a temporary measure. Airlines often adjust their schedules for a few weeks or months and then return to the original route once the issue is resolved. Passengers and travel agents should keep an eye on Norwegian Air Shuttle’s official channels for updates.
How to Stay Updated
- Visit Norwegian Air Shuttle’s website: For the latest flight schedules and updates, go to norwegian.com.
- Check flight status: Use the flight status tool to see real-time information about your flight.
- Contact customer service: If you have urgent questions, reach out to Norwegian Air Shuttle’s customer service through their website or at the airport.
Conclusion: What Travelers Should Remember
The sudden addition of a Krakow stop on Norwegian Air Shuttle’s Belgrade–Oslo flights is a significant change for travelers this summer. While the reason for the change remains unclear, passengers should plan for longer travel times and check their itineraries carefully. The new stop also opens up direct travel options between Belgrade and Krakow, which may be useful for some.
Always check your flight status before you travel, allow extra time for connections, and stay informed through official channels. If you have questions about visas or border control, consult the European Union’s official passenger rights page or the Schengen visa information page.
As the situation develops, Norwegian Air Shuttle may provide more information or return to direct flights. Until then, being prepared and staying informed is the best way to ensure a smooth journey.
Learn Today
Norwegian Air Shuttle → A Norwegian low-cost airline operating flights mainly across Europe and the North Atlantic.
Krakow Airport (KRK) → A major international airport in southern Poland, serving as a growing regional hub.
Flight itinerary → A detailed schedule of flight segments, including stops and connections for passengers.
Schengen Area → A group of European countries allowing passport-free travel across their borders.
Transit area → A designated airport zone where passengers remain between connecting flights without border control.
This Article in a Nutshell
Norwegian Air Shuttle unexpectedly added Krakow as a stopover for Belgrade–Oslo flights starting July 2025, altering schedules and offering new booking options. Passengers should check itineraries carefully due to longer travel times and possible transit procedures. This temporary change may affect connections and requires staying updated via official channels.
— By VisaVerge.com
