Scandinavian Airlines has been honored as the European Airline of the Year in 2026 at the Grand Travel Awards, a prestigious recognition in the aviation sector. The event, attended by over 300 industry members, saw SAS recognized for its significant operational improvements and customer service advancements. Representatives including Øystein Schmidt and Bjørn Erik Barman-Jenssen accepted the award, which affirms the airline's strategic transformation.
The airline has focused on enhancing punctuality, customer satisfaction, and overall reliability. These efforts include reintroducing business class options, expanding lounge access, launching new routes, and installing high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink across its fleet. These initiatives demonstrate SAS's commitment to rebuilding its global reputation and competitiveness.
Founded in 1946 by Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish airlines, SAS launched its first intercontinental flight from Stockholm to New York shortly after its inception. The airline later became a founding member of the Star Alliance in 1997, a worldwide network linking global carriers and enabling seamless travel for millions of passengers. The award underscores the airline’s ongoing progress and dedication to providing higher-quality service in the evolving aviation market.
