Low-cost carriers are infamous for the way they nickel-and-dime passengers. Thanks to the art of "unbundling," fliers can expect to pay extra fees for everything from a carry-on bag and the opportunity to choose a seat to a cup of water once onboard.
But though Norwegian Airlines is considered a budget airline, flying overseas in its premium seating is actually quite enjoyable.
During a red-eye flight from New York's John F. Kennedy Airport to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, for example, our Boeing 787 Dreamliner came packed with most __ if not all __ the amenities that one finds in most airlines' First Class cabins.
Each seat comes equipped with an Android touch-screen entertainment system with dozens of television and feature film options, from hit comedy television series such as "Broad City," to film classics such as "Edward Scissorhands" and more recent Hollywood blockbusters. The side console also includes the seat's light control, recline (and foot rest) and flight attendant call button. The cabin is quite comfortable, too, as Norwegian has pressurized the cabin to simulate an altitude of 6,000 feet, rather than the standard 8,000 of most other airlines. The cabin's light also changed once in-flight based on the destination's time zone, leading to less jet lag once on the ground __ a much-appreciated touch after a long-haul flight.
Although fliers in economy can order meals and snacks to their seat for an added charge, premium seating comes with included meals. During my flight, I ordered quinoa salad with olives, feta and red onion; grilled chicken with vegetables and grains; and last __ but certainly not least __ I satisfied my sweet tooth with Fika chocolate truffles. Now that's a sweet way to fly.
