The Scandinavian Aviation Market is Giving Clear Signs of Recovery

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Scandinavian carriers SAS (Scandinavian Airlines System) and Finnair are just a few of the airlines that are highlighting the clear recovery of the Scandinavian aviation industry.

SAS improved performance

In April 2022, SAS carried more than 1.5 million passengers, a fivefold increase compared to the same month in 2021. Capacity, measured in Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs), increased three times, while Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPKs) were seven times higher than last April.

SAS also saw an enhanced load factor, which increased from 41 to 71% in April compared to the same month in 2021. Moreover, the carrier performance improved also compared to March 2o22, with 7% more passengers carried and capacity up by 15%.

Chief executive Anko van der Werff commented:

“Looking forward, sales and booking trends are positive for the summer period ahead”.

Last April was the month that saw the greatest increase in passenger numbers since the pandemic for the Scandinavian carrier. Furthermore, SAS is planning increased capacity for the upcoming summer season. Indeed, the airline has added flights to the Mediterranean and North America, which will be operated with the new, efficient Airbus A321LR.

Finnair astonishing numbers

Compared to April 2021, Finnair passenger traffic increased by a staggering 740%. Such a remarkable increase in passenger traffic is still limited by the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions imposed by several Asian countries. Passenger and cargo capacity increased by 508% y-o-y, with RPKs 14 times higher than April 2021. Passenger load factor reached 60%, up 27% from the previous year.

The airline operated 236 daily flights, an increase of 237% and 11% more than March 2022. In favour of the carrier’s recovery is the passenger increase in the Asian markets: +1,093% y-o-y. Although the load factor was still low on flights to Asia, with an average of 52%, the carrier managed to offset low passenger numbers with cargo operations. Overall, cargo capacity increased by 43% vis-a-vis 2021, while Revenue Tonne Kilometres (RTKs) increased by 8%.

What do you think of the increased traffic registered by both SAS and Finnair? Let us know in the comments below!