The Norwegian competition authorities has approved SAS's purchase of shares in Widerøes

The Norwegian competition authorities has approved SAS's purchase of shares in Widerøes SAS purchase of 63,2% of the shares in Widerøes Flyveselskap ASA has been approved by the Norwegian competition authorities. In order to avoid possible competitive consequences the Norwegian competition authorities has in its final evaluation given certain limitations to the co-operation. Both parties have approved these limitations. The approval by Norwegian Competition authorities is effective as of today and valid until June 16, 2003. The approval means that SAS now will complete its purchase of the shares in Widerøes Flyveselskap ASA. SAS made public on November 27, 1997 its purchase of shares in Widerøes Flyveselskap ASA from Fred. Olsen & Co-companies, Bonheur ASA and Ganger Rolf ASA. The purchase agreement included the purchase of 29 % of the shares, with an option for another 34,2 % on December 28, 1998. The agreement has been pending on the relevant authorities approval. ------------------------------------------------------------ This information was brought to you by Waymaker http://www.waymaker.net The following files are available for download: http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2003/07/30/20030730BIT00070/wkr0001.doc http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2003/07/30/20030730BIT00070/wkr0002.pdf