2 min read - 1 Jul, 2026
SAS orders 18 Airbus A330neo powered by Rolls-Royce engines
Scandinavian carrier SAS has placed a firm order with Airbus for 18 A330-900 aircraft as part of its ongoing fleet renewal strategy. The agreement was signed during a ceremony in Copenhagen by Anko van der Werff, CEO of SAS, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales, Airbus Commercial.
The aircraft will support SAS’s ongoing international network expansion, allowing the airline to increase existing high-capacity routes globally and introduce new routes.
Exclusively powered by the latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo is designed to fly up to 8,100 nautical miles non-stop and reduces fuel burn, CO2 emissions and operating cost by 25% compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.
Scandinavian carrier SAS has placed a firm order with Airbus for 18 A330neo aircraft, which will support its global network expansion / Picture: Airbus
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.”
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with a target to reach 100% SAF capability by 2030.
At the end of May 2026, the A330 Family had won over 1,950 orders from 133 customers worldwide.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry added: “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 aircraft will be exclusively powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines / Picture: Rolls-Royce
Rob Watson, president of civil aerospace, Rolls-Royce, said: “We are delighted that SAS has made their first order for A330neo aircraft. This order reflects the strength of our technology and our valued partnership – especially meaningful as SAS marks its 80th anniversary this year — and we are proud to support SAS at this significant milestone in their journey. The Trent 7000 delivers outstanding efficiency and sustainability benefits and SAS can be confident in the reliability and support for their fleet.”
