Explore Dubai and Thailand: SAS Launches New Long-Haul Routes for Winter 2026/27

Scandinavian airline SAS is strengthening its long-haul operations with the launch of three new routes from Copenhagen to Dubai, Phuket, and Krabi for the Winter 2026/27 season. The expansion aims to meet growing demand for travel to the Middle East and Asia while further cementing Copenhagen’s role as a key hub for Scandinavia and Northern Europe.

The return to Dubai marks SAS’ first operation to the UAE since 2011, providing year-round connectivity for leisure and corporate travellers. Meanwhile, Thailand will see a major capacity boost, with over 75% more seats compared to last winter, including nonstop flights to Phuket and Krabi for the first time from Copenhagen, making SAS the only airline offering these direct services.

Route schedules:

• Copenhagen – Dubai (DWC)

  • Season: 25 October 2026 – 27 March 2027

  • Frequency: Daily

  • Aircraft: Airbus A320neo

  • Departure: CPH 23:45 → DWC 09:15 (+1)

  • Return: DWC 11:00 → CPH 15:20

• Copenhagen – Phuket (HKT)

  • Season: 09 December 2026 – 29 March 2027

  • Frequency: 2–3 times weekly

  • Aircraft: Airbus A350

  • Departure: CPH 17:40–23:45 depending on date → HKT 06:50–16:55 (+1)

  • Return: HKT 08:45–22:50 → CPH 05:30–19:15 (+1)

• Copenhagen – Krabi (KBV)

  • Season: 08 December 2026 – 28 March 2027

  • Frequency: 2 weekly (Tue & Sat)

  • Aircraft: Airbus A350

  • Departure: CPH 23:45 → KBV 16:55 (+1)

  • Return: KBV 22:50 → CPH 05:30 (+1)

Supporting fleet and network growth
The new routes will be supported by the addition of two new Airbus A350 aircraft, enabling a 34% increase in A350 operations across SAS’ long-haul network. This winter also sees capacity increases on several North American and Asian routes, including:

• Boston: +70% seats

• San Francisco: +20% seats

• Chicago: +10% seats

• Seoul: +50% seats

• Tokyo Haneda: +40% seats

• Bangkok: +15% seats

Leadership perspective
Paul Verhagen, COO at SAS, commented:

“Dubai represents an important market for SAS, and we are proud to introduce Phuket and Krabi to our long-haul network. These new routes strengthen Copenhagen as a global hub for Scandinavia and Northern Europe and expand travel options for both business and leisure passengers.”

Erik Westman, Chief Revenue Officer, added:

“With additional A350 aircraft and increased capacity across key routes, we continue to grow our global network while maintaining the punctuality and reliability our customers expect. This expansion reflects our strong momentum and ambition for sustainable growth.”

SAS’ operational excellence, including recognition as one of the world’s most punctual airlines, provides the foundation for this expansion, ensuring a seamless experience for travellers on these long-haul routes.

Cover Image: sasgroup/Website