To meet the growing demand for travel and cargo transport between Scandinavia and the United States, SAS is expanding its North American network by adding a ninth destination. Starting on June 17th, SAS will offer daily nonstop flights from Copenhagen to Atlanta, providing customers with a new direct route to the U.S. This expansion not only enhances passenger travel but also significantly boosts cargo capacity, benefiting businesses in both regions.
A Strategic Addition for Cargo
The new Copenhagen-Atlanta route is a strategic addition for SAS Cargo, offering enhanced connectivity and efficiency for cargo shipments. Atlanta, with its world-class Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, is a major cargo hub. Handling nearly 104 million passengers and significant cargo volume in 2023, the airport is the world's busiest and most efficient. This makes it an ideal gateway for Scandinavian goods entering the U.S. market and American products reaching Europe. Furthermore, Atlanta ranks as the sixth-largest cargo destination in the U.S. from Scandinavia, underscoring its importance in transatlantic trade. Prior to this route, Atlanta was the largest cargo destination from Scandinavia not served by a direct flight, highlighting the significance of this new service.
Enhanced Cargo Capabilities
SAS will operate the new route with both Airbus A330 and A350 aircraft, which are equipped to handle substantial cargo loads in addition to passenger baggage. The A330 and A350 aircraft are well-suited for long-haul flights and are capable of transporting a wide range of cargo, including perishables, pharmaceuticals, and high-value goods. This new route provides an essential link for industries relying on timely and reliable air freight services.
Strategic Partnership with SkyTeam and Delta Air Lines
On September 1, 2024, SAS will join SkyTeam, a global airline alliance. With Atlanta serving as a major hub for SkyTeam member Delta Air Lines, SAS customers will benefit from seamless access to the extensive SkyTeam network. This network includes over 1,060 destinations across all member airlines, offering unparalleled connectivity and streamlined logistics solutions.
SAS has already started integrating Delta Air Lines flights into its itineraries, providing customers with increased options and improved service reliability. This collaboration enhances SAS`s ability to meet the diverse needs of its customers.
Boosting Business and Trade
Atlanta is not only a key destination for leisure and business travel but also a critical hub for international trade. The city is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, making it a lucrative market for Scandinavian exporters. The new SAS route facilitates easier access to these companies, enhancing business opportunities and fostering economic ties between the two regions.
Paul Verhagen, SAS Chief Commercial Officer, emphasizes the importance of this new route: “SAS is excited to expand its offerings for both business and leisure travelers. For business travelers, Atlanta serves as a significant hub, home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, making it a lucrative and essential destination.”
Alain Bellemare, Delta’s E.V.P. & President – International, also highlights the strategic benefits: “Working closely with SAS will further strengthen Delta’s presence in Northern Europe by offering our customers improved access to destinations. Our bilateral agreement is integral to our long-term strategy to better connect Delta customers around the world, and SAS’ new nonstop service between Atlanta and Copenhagen is a strong start in building our future cooperation.”
The new Copenhagen-Atlanta route marks a significant milestone for SAS, enhancing its North American network and providing substantial benefits for both passenger travel and cargo transport. With state-of-the-art aircraft, strategic partnerships, and a focus on meeting the demands of the modern market, SAS is well-positioned to serve as a vital link between Scandinavia and the United States, fostering stronger economic and cultural connections. Atlanta’s status as the sixth-largest cargo destination in the U.S. from Scandinavia and its previous position as the largest cargo destination not served by a direct flight further underscore the significance of this new route for global trade and logistics.
