It comes after the budget carrier last year set out wide-ranging plans to shift its strategic focus away from expansion and growth.

Carryings increased 8% year-on-year this February to 2.517 million passengers (+187,329) on a load factor of 81.5% – down 2.8%.

However, capacity growth increased by just 15%, down from 35% this time last year.

“Growth is now slowing down considerably, in line with the strategy of returning to profitability,” said the airline in a statement.

Chief executive Bjorn Kjos added: “We are very pleased with the continued passenger growth in February, a month traditionally characterised by less demand.

“Norwegian has been through a period with significant growth, but now the company will change its strategic focus from expansion and growth to profitability.

“With a stronger financial position and lower cost going forward, we are well positioned to continue to attract new customers, not least in the long-haul market.”