Eirik Wæraas appointed Director of Traffic Development at Avinor

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

Wæraas’ experience in route and market development will be important for the continued development of air services in the Norwegian market. 

“By bringing Eirik onto 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 points to Wæraas’ expertise and extensive experience from Scandinavian and international aviation. 

“Eirik has demonstrated deep professional expertise, with thorough knowledge and insight into both commercial and operational challenges. We are very pleased to welcome him on board,” says Joachim Lupnaav Johnsen. 

Strengthening Norway’s international connectivity 

Wæraas will take up the position on 1 August 2026 and looks forward to the task ahead. 

“I am very much looking forward to joining Avinor and to contributing to strengthening Norway’s international connectivity,” says Wæraas. 

He points out that Norway has both an extensive domestic route 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 continues to attract more and more travellers.” 

Oslo as a hub 

Wæraas also highlights the importance of Oslo Airport and its 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 close cooperation with a wide range of stakeholders to further develop the route network. 

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

Broad international experience 

In his previous role, Wæraas led long-term market strategy and route development with a focus on North America, the Middle East and Asia. Earlier in his career, he spent many years at the SAS Group, where he was responsible for both the international route network and the Scandinavian home market during a period of significant structural transformation. 

Throughout his career, he has worked closely with airports, destination companies and authorities across the Nordic region, Europe and international markets. Wæraas, who is originally from Trondheim, 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, London