Scandinavian Airlines is strengthening its long-haul operations with three new routes from Copenhagen to Dubai, Phuket, and Krabi for the Winter 2026/27 season. The expansion meets growing demand for travel to the Middle East and Asia while cementing Copenhagen's role as a key hub for Scandinavia and Northern Europe.
The return to Dubai marks SAS's first operation to the UAE since 2011, restoring year-round connectivity for leisure and corporate travellers. 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 (varies by 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)
Fleet Growth Powers the Expansion
The new long-haul routes will be supported by the addition of two new Airbus A350 aircraft, enabling a 34% increase in A350 operations across SAS's network. This winter also sees capacity increases on several North American and Asian routes:
- Boston: +70% seats - San Francisco: +20% seats - Chicago: +10% seats - Seoul: +50% seats - Tokyo Haneda: +40% seats - Bangkok: +15% seats
What SAS Leaders Said
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."
Why This Matters for Travellers
SAS's operational track record — including recognition as one of the world's most punctual airlines — underpins the confidence behind this expansion, ensuring a reliable experience on these new long-haul routes. For travellers in the UAE, the Copenhagen hub also opens seamless onward connections across Scandinavia and Northern Europe.
