SAS Resumes Direct Flights Between Scandinavia and India After 17 Years

Key Takeaways

• SAS launches direct Copenhagen–Mumbai flights June 2, 2026, operating Airbus A330-300 five times weekly.
• Direct route improves business, tourism, and Indian diaspora travel between Scandinavia and Mumbai.
• Flights save hours with non-stop connections versus Frankfurt or London layovers; booking open now.

Scandinavian Airlines Announces Direct Route Between Copenhagen and Mumbai: What It Means for Travelers, Businesses, and the Aviation Market

On June 25, 2025, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) made a major announcement: the launch of a new direct route between Copenhagen, Denmark, and Mumbai, India. This marks SAS’s return to the Indian market after a 17-year break, with the first flight scheduled for June 2, 2026. The new service will operate five times a week using an Airbus A330-300, connecting Scandinavia directly to India’s financial capital for the first time since 2009. This move is set to reshape travel and business links between Northern Europe and India, offering new opportunities for travelers, companies, and both regions’ airports.

Let’s break down what this means, who benefits, and how this new direct route could change the way people travel between Scandinavia and India.

Why Is This Route Important?

The launch of a direct route between Copenhagen and Mumbai is significant for several reasons:

• First direct SAS flight to India in 17 years: The last time SAS flew directly to India was in 2009, and the return signals renewed confidence in the India–Europe travel market.
• Mumbai as a key destination: Mumbai is India’s commercial capital, home to major businesses, financial institutions, and a large Indian diaspora. Direct flights make travel easier for businesspeople, tourists, and families.
• Copenhagen as a global hub: SAS wants to strengthen Copenhagen’s role as a major transit point for travelers from Scandinavia, Europe, and North America.

Who Benefits From the New Direct Route?

This new direct route is set to benefit several groups:

• Business travelers: Direct flights save time and make it easier to attend meetings, close deals, and build partnerships between Scandinavia and India.
• Indian diaspora: Many people with Indian roots live in Scandinavia and Northern Europe. The direct route makes it easier to visit family and maintain cultural ties.
• Tourists: Leisure travelers can now reach India’s vibrant city of Mumbai without long layovers, making trips more attractive and less tiring.
• Students and professionals: With growing educational and job exchanges between India and Scandinavia, the direct route supports easier movement for students and skilled workers.

Key Details of the SAS Copenhagen–Mumbai Route

Here are the main facts travelers need to know:

• First Flight: June 2, 2026
• Route: Copenhagen (CPH) – Mumbai (BOM)
• Flight Numbers: SK969 (CPH–BOM), SK970 (BOM–CPH)
• Frequency: 5 times per week
  • CPH–BOM: Departs 13:10, arrives 01:30 (+1) (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
  • BOM–CPH: Departs 06:00, arrives 11:45 (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
• Aircraft: Airbus A330-300
• Booking: Tickets are already on sale via the SAS website and travel agents
• Travel Classes: SAS Go (economy), SAS Plus (premium economy), SAS Business
• Award Redemptions: Virgin Flying Club (Economy: 20,500 miles; Premium Economy: 37,500 miles; Business: 60,000 miles)
• Status: Subject to final government approval

How Does This Affect Travel Between Scandinavia and India?

The new direct route is expected to make travel much easier and faster. Before this, travelers often had to connect through other European cities like Frankfurt, London, or Paris, adding hours to their journey. Now, passengers can fly straight from Copenhagen to Mumbai, saving time and reducing the stress of multiple layovers.

Flight Schedule and Convenience

The schedule is designed to help travelers connect easily to other destinations:

• From Copenhagen: Flights leave in the early afternoon, arriving in Mumbai just after midnight. This timing allows for smooth connections from other Scandinavian and European cities.
• From Mumbai: Early morning departures mean travelers can reach Copenhagen by midday, making it easy to catch connecting flights to other parts of Europe or North America.

Why Did SAS Choose Mumbai Over Other Indian Cities?

According to analysis from VisaVerge.com, SAS picked Mumbai for several reasons:

• Mumbai is India’s business hub: Many Scandinavian companies have offices or partners in Mumbai.
• Existing competition on Delhi route: Air India already operates direct flights between Delhi and Copenhagen, so SAS chose Mumbai to avoid direct competition and tap into a different market.
• Strong demand: Mumbai’s airport handled over 51 million passengers in 2023, showing strong and growing demand for international travel.

What Does This Mean for the Aviation Market?

SAS’s move is seen as a strategic response to the growing demand for direct flights between Europe and India. In 2023, over 7 million passengers traveled between Europe and India, and this number is expected to grow by 6–8% each year through 2030. The new route could prompt other airlines to consider similar services, especially as business and leisure travel continue to recover after the pandemic.

Copenhagen Airport’s Role as a Hub

Copenhagen Airport is SAS’s main hub and handled over 22 million passengers in 2023. The new Mumbai route is expected to:

• Increase passenger numbers: More travelers will use Copenhagen as a transit point for flights between India, Scandinavia, and North America.
• Strengthen the airport’s position: As more intercontinental routes are added, Copenhagen becomes a more important gateway for Northern Europe and the Baltics.

Official Statements and Industry Reactions

Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of SAS, said:

“India is a key global market — both in terms of growing demand and economic importance. With this new route, SAS contributes to strengthening Copenhagen’s role as a global hub while supporting increased connectivity between India and Northern Europe, as well as between India and North America. Mumbai is a natural next step in our strategy to link Scandinavia with one of the world’s most important regions for business and leisure travel.”

Aviation analysts agree that this is a smart move. Mumbai was chosen because it offers strong business and tourism demand, and because SAS can avoid direct competition with Air India’s Delhi–Copenhagen service.

How to Book and Prepare for the New SAS Direct Route

If you’re planning to travel between Scandinavia and Mumbai, here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Booking Your Ticket
   • Visit the SAS official website or use a trusted travel agent.
   • Use the low-fare calendar to find the best prices.
   • Book early for the lowest fares, as direct flights are likely to be popular.
2. Check-in Process
   • Online check-in opens 30 hours before departure.
   • Use the SAS website or app to check in, select your seat, and manage baggage.
   • Check baggage allowances and add extra bags online for lower fees.
3. At the Airport
   • Arrive early, especially during busy travel periods.
   • Use the SAS app or website to monitor flight status and gate information.
4. Onboard Experience
   • Choose from three travel classes: SAS Go (economy), SAS Plus (premium economy), and SAS Business.
   • Enjoy tailored amenities, including meals, entertainment, and comfort features.
   • Children’s tickets may be discounted by up to 90%, making family travel more affordable.

What About Immigration and Visa Requirements?

Travelers from Scandinavia and other countries will need to meet India’s visa requirements. Most visitors to India must apply for a visa before arrival. The Indian government offers several types of visas, including tourist, business, and e-visas. For the latest information and to apply online, visit the Indian Government’s official visa portal.

Impact on the Indian Diaspora and Students

The direct route is especially helpful for the Indian diaspora living in Scandinavia and Northern Europe. It makes it easier to visit family, attend cultural events, and maintain strong ties with India. Students studying in Scandinavia or India will also benefit from faster, more convenient travel, making it easier to attend school, internships, or family gatherings.

Business and Trade Opportunities

Mumbai is a major center for finance, technology, and trade. The new direct route will:

• Make business travel easier: Companies can send employees to meetings and conferences without long layovers.
• Support trade: Faster travel helps companies move goods and people more efficiently.
• Encourage investment: Easier travel can lead to more business deals and partnerships between Scandinavia and India.

Aviation Market Competition and Future Growth

SAS’s entry into the India market could lead to more competition. Other airlines may respond by adding new routes or increasing flight frequencies. There is also potential for SAS to work with Indian carriers like IndiGo to offer more connections within India, making it easier for travelers to reach cities beyond Mumbai.

Background: SAS’s History With India

SAS previously operated flights between Copenhagen and Delhi from 2007 to 2009 but stopped due to market challenges. The return to India after 17 years shows renewed optimism about the market and a focus on long-haul expansion. The decision follows SAS’s recent move from the Star Alliance to the SkyTeam airline group, which is part of a broader strategy to grow its intercontinental network.

What Needs to Happen Before Flights Begin?

The new route is still subject to final government approval, but no major obstacles are expected. SAS is already selling tickets, showing confidence that all permissions will be granted in time for the June 2026 launch.

Looking Ahead: Could More Routes Follow?

If the Copenhagen–Mumbai route is successful, SAS may consider adding more direct flights between Scandinavia and other Indian cities. The airline could also deepen partnerships with Indian carriers to offer even more connections, depending on demand and market conditions.

Summary Table: SAS Copenhagen–Mumbai Route Details

Official Resources and Contact Information

• SAS Official Website: flysas.com
• Press Releases and Updates: sasgroup.net/newsroom
• Copenhagen Airport: Official site for airport services and updates
• Indian Visa Information: indianvisaonline.gov.in

For customer service or specific questions, visit the SAS contact page on their website.

Conclusion: A New Era for Scandinavian–Indian Travel

The launch of Scandinavian Airlines’ direct route between Copenhagen and Mumbai is a major step forward for travel, business, and cultural exchange between Scandinavia and India. The new service offers faster, more convenient travel options for businesspeople, tourists, students, and families. It also strengthens Copenhagen’s role as a key hub for intercontinental flights and signals SAS’s long-term commitment to the Indian market.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, this move is well-timed to meet growing demand and could lead to even more direct connections in the future. With tickets already on sale and the first flight set for June 2, 2026, travelers and businesses alike can start planning for a new era of easier, more direct travel between Northern Europe and India.

For the latest updates and to book your ticket, visit the SAS official website. If you’re planning to visit India, remember to check the Indian Government’s official visa portal for the most up-to-date visa requirements and application forms.

This new direct route is more than just a flight—it’s a bridge between two dynamic regions, opening doors for new opportunities, friendships, and adventures.

Learn Today

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) → The flag carrier of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden operating regional and international flights.
Airbus A330-300 → A wide-body twin-engine jet aircraft commonly used for medium to long-haul international flights.
Indian diaspora → People of Indian origin living abroad, especially in Scandinavia and Northern Europe in this context.
VisaVerge.com → An immigration and visa information platform providing updates on travel and visa regulations worldwide.
Virgin Flying Club → A frequent flyer program allowing members to redeem miles for flights on SAS and partner airlines.

This Article in a Nutshell

Scandinavian Airlines resumes flights to India after 17 years, debuting a direct Copenhagen–Mumbai route in June 2026. Operating five weekly flights on Airbus A330-300, this service boosts business ties, tourism, and diaspora travel while strengthening Copenhagen Airport’s role as a major European hub for international flights.
— By VisaVerge.com