A recent Scandinavian Airlines SAS report reveals that Scandinavia lost over 1.2 million airline seats in 2024 compared to pre-crisis levels, as a result of airspace closures.
Closed airspace over Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine, combined with geopolitical tensions in Asia and the Middle East, is to blame.
These restrictions have hit European airlines hardest, with Western carriers seeing sharper passenger declines than those still flying over Russia.
The new report, part of the new SAS Aviation Insight series, details how airspace closures have disrupted flight routes.
Disruption of Standard Flight Routes
The report explores the operational and economic impacts of geopolitical shifts on aviation, particularly in relation to the closed airspaces over Russia and its neighboring regions.
In 2024, air traffic between Scandinavia and several Eastern European and Asian countries was significantly reduced. This has led to substantial effects on both passenger flow and operational costs for SAS.
For example, the Copenhagen–Shanghai route now takes up to two hours longer each way.
This increases fuel use, reduces crew and aircraft efficiency, raises costs, and lowers cargo capacity. These changes make it tougher for European airlines to compete.
Mads Brandstrup Nielsen, SAS Senior Vice President of Public Affairs, notes, “Closed Russian airspace creates an uneven playing field. We’re committed to connecting Scandinavia with Asia, but the industry needs fair conditions for sustainable, reliable service.”
The impact is clear in passenger and route changes. SAS will not fly directly to China in 2025, while Chinese airlines have boosted capacity on these routes.
Western carriers affected by airspace bans have lost more passengers than those using restricted airspace. Despite this, SAS plans to launch a new Seoul route in September 2025. This route should remain competitive, as all airlines face similar restrictions.
Cargo and Tourism Take a Hit
Airspace closures also disrupt air cargo. Longer routes reduce capacity and efficiency, causing delays and higher shipping costs for trade between Europe and Asia. This affects businesses relying on timely deliveries.
Scandinavia’s economy feels the strain too. Fewer direct flights hurt tourism and business travel, cutting local revenue. Many companies now rely on virtual meetings instead of in-person visits, further impacting travel-related income.
SAS Adapts to Challenges
SAS is tackling these issues head-on. The airline is exploring new routes and partnerships to offset the impact of closed airspace. It’s also investing in fuel-efficient planes and innovative technologies to cut costs and boost resilience.
While challenges remain, SAS is focused on long-term competitiveness. By adapting to geopolitical realities and prioritizing sustainability, the airline aims to maintain reliable connections for passengers and businesses.
This report highlights the broader effects of global instability on aviation. As airspace restrictions persist, European carriers like SAS must innovate to stay competitive.
The new Seoul route and investments in efficiency show SAS’s commitment to navigating these turbulent times while keeping Scandinavia connected to the world.
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