Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) says Scandinavia has lost over 1.2 million departing airline seats in 2024 compared to pre-crisis levels.
“This is a direct consequence of closed airspace over Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine,” SAS read in a statement. “Broader geopolitical instability in Asia and the Middle East has also contributed.”
The report is part of its new series of publications ‘SAS Aviation Insights’, which outlines the impact of the restrictions on European carriers.
“As long as Russian airspace remains closed, this imbalance will persist,” SAS senior vice president public affairs Mads Brandstrup Nielsen said. “While we remain committed to connecting Scandinavia to Asia, the industry needs a level playing field to ensure long-term sustainability, fair competition, and reliable connectivity for our customers.”
The airline added that the closed airspace has also had an impact on its air cargo operations with longer flight routes reducing cargo capacity and efficiency.
SAS said it is exploring “alternative routes and partnerships” to mitigate the impact of closed airspace.