Air France–KLM announced today that it plans to move forward with acquiring a majority stake in SAS. This step will help the Scandinavian airline become more competitive across Europe and the world.
SAS has faced financial difficulties in recent years, emerging from U.S. Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings last year, while dealing with higher costs, supply chain issues, and competition from the U.S. and the Middle East.
Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of SAS, assured investors, “We remain true to our identity, heritage, and deep customer focus. SAS will continue to be proudly Scandinavian at heart, look and feel.”
He announced, “Air France–KLM becoming the majority owner would mark a defining moment for SAS and a strong signal of confidence in the direction we’re heading. It brings not just stability but will also allow for deeper industrial integration and the full backing of one of the world’s leading airline groups, once regulatory approval has been obtained. Together, we will be better positioned to deliver greater value to our customers, our colleagues, and the wider region.”
Adding, “This relationship is grounded in mutual respect, dedication to operational excellence and strong sustainability ambitions. As global interest in Scandinavia continues to grow, we believe this consolidation strengthens SAS’ ability to connect Scandinavia with the world—and the world with Scandinavia—by positioning Copenhagen as our global hub for the region, while continuing to uphold strong and strategic operations in both Oslo and Stockholm.”
The announcement follows the airline’s recent order of a record number of new aircraft. “45 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional 10 aircraft — the largest SAS jet order direct from a manufacturer since 1996,” the company stated.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
