Scandinavian carrier SAS has placed a firm order for 18 Airbus A330-900 aircraft as part of a planned fleet renewal, the airline confirmed at a signing ceremony in Copenhagen. The contract was signed by SAS CEO Anko van der Werff and Airbus Executive Vice President of Sales Benoît de Saint-Exupéry.
The new widebodies are intended to underpin SAS's international network growth, allowing the carrier to add capacity on existing long-haul services and to open new routes. Company executives described the aircraft as central to the carrier's long-term fleet strategy and passenger offering.
Speaking at the ceremony, Anko van der Werff said: "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."
Airbus's sales executive framed the deal as a reaffirmation of the manufacturer's position in the medium- to long-range twin-aisle market. Benoît de Saint-Exupéry said: "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."
The A330neo family is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and has a stated maximum range of up to 8,100 nautical miles, or about 15,000 kilometres, on a nonstop flight. Airbus says the model reduces fuel burn, CO2 emissions and operating costs by 25% compared with previous-generation competitor aircraft.
On the sustainability front, Airbus notes that all its aircraft can currently operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and that the company has a target of reaching 100% SAF capability by 2030. The order therefore links to both capacity and emissions objectives cited by the airline and manufacturer.
At the end of May 2026, Airbus reported that the A330 Family had recorded more than 1,950 orders from 133 customers globally, underscoring the model family's commercial traction.
Note on available information - The announcement details the firm order, its intended role in SAS's international expansion, and technical and environmental characteristics of the A330-900. The statement does not provide delivery schedules, financing terms, or a timetable for integration into SAS's network.