SAS Emerges as Key Player in European Airline Consolidation

In the wake of a successful bankruptcy-restructuring process, SAS AB is actively engaging in the consolidation of European airlines, particularly through its partnership with Air France-KLM. SAS CEO, Anko van der Werff, foresees a full recovery by next year, with a strong emphasis on premium offerings and the reintroduction of business class services on intra-European routes from its hub in Copenhagen.

Van der Werff expressed eagerness to be part of the airline merger trend in Europe, underlining the importance of SAS owners in driving this initiative forward. With Air France-KLM's acquisition of a 19.9% stake and the potential for increased ownership, SAS aims to solidify its position in the European market.

Recognizing the need for consolidation among European low-cost carriers, SAS focuses on leveraging its strengths in business travel and its prominent standing in the Nordic market, including valuable landing slots and a significant loyalty member base. Despite holding a stake in SAS, Air France-KLM currently operates as a competitor, with potential plans to acquire a controlling interest by mid-2026, pending performance milestones.

Air France-KLM's CFO, Steven Zaat, acknowledges the mutual benefits of cooperation between the two airlines over the next couple of years, aiming to enhance their market positions. Van der Werff also stresses the importance of strategic adaptability in the airline industry, urging European countries to optimize resources amidst the challenges faced by national carriers like Italy's Alitalia.