Deal nearing completion
Airbus SE appears close to securing a widebody aircraft order from SAS AB. According to people familiar with the matter, the Scandinavian carrier is evaluating a package that would combine Airbus A330neo and A350 models, with the order size under consideration said to be in the range of 15 to 20 jets. The parties are expected to wrap up the agreement in the coming weeks, and the aircraft would be delivered early in the next decade.
Rationale and fleet strategy
SAS currently operates an all-Airbus widebody fleet, comprising newer A350s alongside older A330 airframes. One of the sources indicated that the airline engaged in discussions with Boeing Co. but ultimately decided to proceed with Airbus to preserve fleet commonality and to limit costs. That preference for Airbus is presented as a cost-management and operational continuity choice rather than a reflection of talks with alternative manufacturers.
Operational pressures
The carrier has faced operational headwinds tied to a rise in jet fuel prices after the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. That development, linked in reporting to fallout from the Iran war, pushed jet fuel to record levels and forced SAS to cut some flights. The situation underscores how fuel-price volatility and regional geopolitical events are affecting airline route planning and capacity.
Broader market context
SAS's pursuit of new long-haul aircraft occurs in an environment where airlines more broadly are managing constrained delivery slot availability while responding to swings in fuel costs. The reported move toward Airbus is consistent with a strategy to standardize widebody types and manage operating expenses in a turbulent market for long-distance travel.
Note on information limits: Where reporting cited "people familiar with the matter," the details presented reflect those accounts. No additional timing, financial terms, or firm order confirmations were provided in those accounts.