SAS invests billions in new long-haul aircraft

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has announced its largest investment decision to date, planning to acquire up to 40 new Airbus long-haul aircraft at a list price exceeding $10 billion (nearly 66 billion Danish kroner).

This significant fleet expansion, which includes A330-900neo and A330-300 models capable of carrying up to 300 passengers, will primarily be deployed on intercontinental routes. The new aircraft are designed for extended range, with the A330-neo able to fly up to 13,600 kilometers on a full tank and boasting a 25% reduction in fuel consumption compared to older models.

SAS CEO Anko van der Werff emphasized that the investment underscores the airline's ambition to bolster connections between Scandinavia and the global community. "Strong global connections create opportunities for businesses, generate jobs, attract investment, and strengthen competitiveness across our regions," van der Werff stated.

An analysis commissioned by SAS suggests that these growth plans could create 25,000 new jobs around Copenhagen Airport by 2030 and increase Denmark's GDP by 25 billion kroner. Founded in 1946 by the Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish states, SAS is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. Following its reconstruction after the COVID-19 pandemic, Norway and Sweden stepped down as long-term owners, with the Danish state now holding approximately a quarter of the shares. Investment firms Lind Invest, Castlelake, and Air France-KLM are also among the shareholders.