Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is expanding its long-haul network for the Winter 2026/27 season with three new nonstop routes from Copenhagen to Dubai, Phuket, and Krabi, strengthening connectivity between Northern Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
The expansion supports Copenhagen’s role as a key gateway for Scandinavia and provides travelers with more direct access to popular leisure and business destinations during the winter travel peak.
Dubai Returns to the SAS Network
SAS will resume flights to Dubai, marking its first service to the United Arab Emirates since 2011. Dubai is a major global hub for business, tourism, and innovation, offering year-round sunshine, world-class resorts, and extensive shopping and dining options.
The route will operate daily and is designed to serve both point-to-point travelers and passengers connecting via Copenhagen from other European cities.
New Nonstop Links to Thailand’s Resort Regions
Thailand sees a significant capacity increase, with SAS adding scheduled nonstop services to Phuket and Krabi for the first time. This makes SAS the only airline offering direct flights from Copenhagen to these two popular beach destinations.
Krabi, known for its limestone cliffs, island hopping, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, has traditionally required a connection via Bangkok or the Middle East. The new nonstop service simplifies access for European travelers heading directly to the Andaman coast.
More Long-Haul Capacity with Airbus A350
The new routes are supported by the delivery of additional Airbus A350 aircraft, enabling SAS to expand long-haul capacity across its network. Alongside the new Thailand routes, SAS will also increase capacity on several existing intercontinental services, including North America and key Asian cities.
For travelers, this means more frequency, better schedule options, and access to modern long-haul cabins with improved comfort, lower noise levels, and better in-flight connectivity.
Focus on Reliability and Connections
SAS states that the winter schedule has been designed to provide convenient onward connections through Copenhagen, making it easier for travelers from across Scandinavia and Northern Europe to reach long-haul destinations with a single transfer.
The airline also highlights continued improvements in operational performance and punctuality, supporting a more reliable travel experience as the network expands.
Route Details – Winter 2026/27
✈ Copenhagen – Dubai (DWC)
- Season: 25 October 2026 – 27 March 2027
- Frequency: Daily
- Aircraft: Airbus A320neo
CPH–DWC: 23:45 – 09:15 (+1)
DWC–CPH: 11:00 – 15:20
✈ Copenhagen – Phuket (HKT)
- Season: 9 December 2026 – 29 March 2027
- Frequency: 2–3 weekly
- Aircraft: Airbus A350
(Schedules vary during the season)
✈ Copenhagen – Krabi (KBV)
- Season: 8 December 2026 – 28 March 2027
- Frequency: 2 weekly
- Aircraft: Airbus A350
CPH–KBV: Tue/Sat 23:45 – 16:55 (+1)
KBV–CPH: Wed/Sun 22:50 – 05:30 (+1)
Photo Credit: Henrik Olsen
