Scandinavian carrier SAS is continuing its fleet renewal programme with a firm order for 18 Airbus A330-900 aircraft. The agreement was signed in Copenhagen by Anko van der Werff, President and CEO of SAS, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.

The order forms part of SAS’ long-term fleet modernisation strategy and will support the airline’s continued international network expansion. The A330-900 aircraft will allow SAS to increase capacity on existing high-demand long-haul routes, while also enabling the launch of new global services.

According to SAS, the new aircraft will play an important role in the airline’s future development, primarily through improved economics, greater operational flexibility and better environmental performance compared with previous-generation widebody aircraft.

“On behalf of SAS, I am delighted to announce this order for the Airbus A330-900. Combining outstanding economics with improved environmental performance, the aircraft will play a key role in our long-term fleet strategy. It will allow us to deliver an exceptional customer experience, expand our network, and offer greater flexibility and convenience for our passengers. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with Airbus well into the future,” said Anko van der Werff, President and CEO of SAS.

Airbus described the order as another confirmation of SAS’ confidence in the European aircraft manufacturer. Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, said the A330-900 represents a benchmark aircraft in its category in terms of efficiency and versatility.

“We are immensely proud to see SAS reaffirm its trust in Airbus to drive its fleet modernisation. The A330-900 is the undisputed benchmark for efficiency and versatility in its category. By integrating these 18 A330neo, SAS will benefit from unbeatable seat-mile economics and seamless operational synergies with its existing Airbus fleet,” said de Saint-Exupéry.

The Airbus A330-900, part of the A330neo family, is powered by latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines. The aircraft is designed to fly up to 8,100 nautical miles, or around 15,000 kilometres, non-stop. According to Airbus, the A330neo delivers a 25 percent reduction in fuel burn, CO2 emissions and operating costs compared with previous-generation competitor aircraft.

The Airspace cabin brings a modernised passenger experience, with a focus on improved comfort for passengers and a more efficient working environment for crews. Like all Airbus aircraft, the A330neo is already capable of operating with up to 50 percent Sustainable Aviation Fuel, while Airbus is targeting 100 percent SAF capability by 2030.

According to Airbus, the A330 family had received more than 1,950 orders from 133 customers worldwide by the end of May 2026.