SAS Launches Record Schedule at Copenhagen Airport Amid Air France-KLM Takeover.

December 29, 2025 at 09:41 AM•3 min read

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) will launch its largest-ever flight schedule at Copenhagen Airport (CPH) in 2026 as its Air France-KLM takeover progresses, while Norwegian boosts Billund

Key Points

1SAS will launch its largest-ever schedule, increasing Copenhagen Airport (CPH) seat capacity by 20% and adding nine new routes, including Mumbai (BOM).
2Air France-KLM plans to finalize its majority 60.5% stake in SAS by the second half of 2026, aiming to make CPH its third major hub to boost long-haul routes.
3Low-cost airline Norwegian is adding 10 new routes to Billund Airport (BLL) in spring 2026, becoming the largest carrier there following Ryanair’s complete withdrawal in April 2025.

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is rolling out its largest-ever schedule for 2026. This major expansion focuses heavily on Copenhagen Airport (CPH). The move comes as Air France-KLM works to finalize its majority stake in the airline. The growth plan is set to reshape the Danish aviation landscape. It also highlights a strategic shift in the country's regional market.

SAS Expansion and Copenhagen Hub Strategy

SAS plans a significant boost in capacity from its Copenhagen hub. The 2026 summer schedule will see a 20% increase in seat capacity. This will create 50% more connecting opportunities for passengers. The airline is adding nine new routes and six new destinations. This includes the launch of a new long-haul service.

Focus on Long-Distance Routes

A key addition is the new Copenhagen to Mumbai (BOM) route. This service will operate five times weekly starting in June 2026. The expansion aligns with the strategy of Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith. He noted that SAS is "underrepresented on long distance routes." The Franco-Dutch group aims to increase its ownership to 60.5%. This acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2026. The goal is to establish Copenhagen as the group's third main hub. This would join its existing hubs in Paris and Amsterdam.

Western Denmark Market Shift

Growth is also evident in Western Denmark. Billund Airport (BLL) is seeing a major rebound. This follows a period of reduced service.

Norwegian Low-Cost Airline Boost

Low-cost carrier Norwegian is leading this regional recovery. The airline is adding 10 new routes for the spring 2026 season. This expansion triples Norwegian’s network at the airport. It makes them the largest airline operating from Billund. New destinations include Milan, Naples, Nice, and Edinburgh. This investment addresses a clear demand in Western Denmark.

Ryanair Billund Withdrawal

Norwegian’s growth fills a significant gap in the market. Rival low-cost airline Ryanair withdrew all services from Billund. The full exit took effect in April 2025. Ryanair cited the new Danish air travel tax as a key factor. The new tax made the base less competitive. This created an opportunity for other carriers like Norwegian to step in. The overall increase in Denmark flight options 2026 signals a robust market. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.

The strategic investment by Air France-KLM and the tactical expansion by Norwegian are key. They underscore a competitive and growing Nordic aviation sector. The long distance routes growth at Copenhagen Airport is a major opportunity. It strengthens Denmark's role as a global travel gateway.