SAS Scandinavian Airlines and Virgin Atlantic have announced a new codeshare agreement. This partnership will officially launch from today, Monday 7 October.
The agreement promises to strengthen vital business and leisure connections between Scandinavia and the United Kingdom.
Expanding Networks and Enhancing Connectivity
The codeshare agreement opens up further flexibility and options for passengers on both airlines. SAS customers will now enjoy seamless connections via London Heathrow to an array of Virgin Atlantic’s destinations.
As regulatory approvals are finalized, the available routes are expected to grow, providing even more options for Scandinavian travelers. Conversely, Virgin Atlantic passengers flying from North America will benefit from smooth onward connections through London Heathrow and Manchester.
These connections will link to SAS services to key Scandinavian cities, including Stockholm, Oslo, Copenhagen, Stavanger, and Bergen. This strategic partnership effectively bridges the North Atlantic with Northern Europe, creating a robust travel network for both leisure and business travelers.
SAS Joins SkyTeam Alliance
The timing of this partnership is particularly significant, as it follows SAS’ formal enrolment into the SkyTeam alliance on September 1st. Virgin Atlantic, as the sole UK-based member of SkyTeam, now plays a pivotal role in connecting SAS to this global network.
This alliance membership brings immediate benefits to SAS EuroBonus members, who can now earn and redeem points when flying with Virgin Atlantic.
Reciprocal Benefits for Frequent Flyers
The collaboration extends beyond just expanded route options. Members of both airlines’ loyalty programs stand to gain substantially from this partnership:
- SAS EuroBonus members can now earn and redeem points across their partner’s extensive network.
- Virgin Atlantic Flying Club members will enjoy similar privileges on SAS services.
- Gold and Diamond tier members of SAS EuroBonus, along with Gold Flying Club members from Virgin Atlantic, can access SkyPriority services at London Heathrow. These perks include priority check-in, baggage handling, and boarding.
- Virgin Atlantic’s Gold and Silver Flying Club members will have access to SkyPriority services and SAS lounges at Stockholm Arlanda, Copenhagen, and Oslo airports.
Airline Perspectives
Paul Verhagen, Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, was enthusiastic about the partnership. “This collaboration not only expands SAS’s global reach but also offers our customers exciting new destinations such as Barbados, Jamaica, and Antigua.”
“We’re committed to enhancing the value of our loyalty program and look forward to a successful partnership with Virgin Atlantic.”
Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic, supported the comments. “As fellow APEX five-star airlines, we’re excited to strengthen our partnership with SAS.”
“This codeshare agreement enhances our connectivity and offers greater benefits to our frequent flyers, allowing them to achieve rewards faster.”
About SAS Scandinavian Airlines
Founded in 1946, SAS Scandinavian Airlines is the flag carrier of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Known for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, SAS operates a modern fleet serving over 125 destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia.
The airline is renowned for its punctuality and high-quality service, consistently ranking among the world’s most on-time airlines.
About Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic, founded by Sir Richard Branson in 1984, has become one of the UK’s leading long-haul airlines. With a focus on customer experience and innovation, Virgin Atlantic operates a fleet of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft.
The airline serves destinations across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia from its main base at London Heathrow.
This new codeshare agreement between SAS and Virgin Atlantic further bolsters European aviation. As the partnership evolves, travelers can look forward to further streamlined connections between Scandinavia, the UK, and beyond.
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