Eirik Wæraas becomes Director of Traffic Development at Avinor

With more than 20 years of experience in international aviation, Wæraas has held leading roles in route development, market analysis and commercial strategy. He comes from the position of Head of Network Strategy and Planning at Virgin Atlantic Airways in London. 

Wæraas' experience from route and market development will be important for the further development of flight services in the Norwegian market. 

– With Wæraas on the team, we are significantly strengthening traffic development at Avinor, says Joachim Lupnaav Johnsen, Executive Vice President for Commercial Management and Development at Avinor. 

He refers to Wæraas' expertise and extensive experience from Scandinavian and international aviation. 

– Wæraas has demonstrated deep professional expertise, with in-depth knowledge and insight into both commercial and operational issues. We are very pleased to have him on board, says Joachim Lupnaav Johnsen. 

Wants to strengthen Norway's international accessibility 
Wæraas will take up the position on August 1, 2026 and looks forward to taking on the task. 

– I am very much looking forward to starting at Avinor and to contributing to strengthening Norway's international accessibility.

He points out that Norway has both an extensive domestic network and growing international demand. 

– Norway is one of the world's most sought-after travel destinations with a unique domestic route network that connects the entire country, and a strong international brand that attracts more and more travelers. 

Oslo as a hub 
Wæraas also highlights the importance of Oslo Airport and the interaction with the largest regional airports. 

– Oslo is the hub that connects this network to the world, and together with Bergen, Stavanger, Trondheim, Tromsø and Avinor's other airports, it forms a foundation that few European countries can match. 

He says he looks forward to working closely with several players to further develop the grid. 

– I look forward to working closely with Norwegian and international airlines, destination companies and public authorities to further develop Norway's and Oslo's position, and to build the analytical foundation for future infrastructure investments in Norwegian aviation, says Wæraas. 

Broad international experience 
In his previous position, Wæraas led long-term market strategy and route development with a focus on North America, the Middle East and Asia. Previously, he spent many years in the SAS Group, where he was responsible for both the international route network and the Scandinavian domestic market through a period of significant structural restructuring. 

Throughout his career, he has worked closely with airports, destination companies and authorities across the Nordic, European and international markets. Originally from Trondheim, Wæraas holds two master's degrees in economics and international management from NHH and CEMS. He is fluent in Swedish, English and German. 

Key facts: 

• Who: Eirik Wæraas 

• Position: Director of Traffic Development, Avinor 

• Background: Head of Network Strategy and Planning at Virgin Atlantic Airways in London 

• Takes up position: August 1, 2026