Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is a major airline based in Scandinavia that operates flights to destinations around the world. For many years, SAS has been known for offering relatively affordable airfares, particularly for flights within Europe. There are a number of factors that contribute to SAS’s ability to keep its prices competitive. In this article, we’ll explore why SAS is able to offer affordable flights.
Business Model
One of the primary reasons why SAS is able to offer relatively cheap flights is its business model. SAS operates as a low-cost carrier, similar to airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet. This means that SAS focuses on reducing costs wherever possible in order to keep its prices low. For example, SAS operates a single type of aircraft, the Airbus A320, which allows the airline to streamline its maintenance and training procedures. This lowers costs associated with maintenance and repairs, as well as reduces the time needed for crew to train on different types of aircraft.
Additionally, SAS charges extra fees for services like checked baggage and seat selection, which enables the airline to keep its base fares low while still generating additional revenue. SAS also utilizes dynamic pricing, which means that ticket prices can fluctuate based on demand, time of year, and other factors.
Route Network
Another factor that contributes to SAS’s affordability is its extensive route network. SAS operates flights to a wide variety of destinations, including many popular tourist destinations in Europe. Because SAS is based in Scandinavia, it is able to offer direct flights to many cities that are not served by other airlines. This allows SAS to compete effectively with other airlines by offering more convenient and affordable options for travelers.
SAS has also formed partnerships with other airlines to expand its route network even further. Through partnerships with other airlines, SAS is able to offer flights to destinations that it wouldn’t normally serve, while still maintaining a low-cost business model.
Cost-Cutting Measures
In addition to its business model and route network, SAS implements various cost-cutting measures to keep its prices low. For example, SAS has implemented a number of measures to reduce fuel consumption, such as optimizing flight paths and reducing the weight of its aircraft. SAS also focuses on reducing its overhead costs by outsourcing certain functions, such as call center operations and ground handling services.
SAS also utilizes technology to reduce costs. For example, SAS has implemented self-check-in kiosks and mobile boarding passes, which reduces the need for staff at check-in counters and lowers the time needed for passengers to check in.
Competition
Another reason why SAS is able to offer affordable prices is because of the competitive nature of the airline industry. SAS competes with a number of other airlines that operate in Europe, and in order to remain competitive, SAS must keep its prices low. This means that SAS is constantly looking for ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency in order to offer the most affordable prices to its customers.
Customer Experience
While SAS focuses heavily on offering affordable prices, the airline also strives to provide a positive customer experience. SAS offers a variety of amenities to passengers, including in-flight entertainment, Wi-Fi, and food and beverage service. SAS also offers a loyalty program, EuroBonus, which rewards frequent flyers with benefits like priority boarding, lounge access, and free checked baggage.
Sustainability
In recent years, SAS has also made sustainability a priority. The airline has committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 25% by 2025, and has implemented a number of measures to achieve this goal. For example, SAS has invested in more fuel-efficient aircraft and has implemented measures to reduce fuel consumption on flights.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a number of factors that contribute to SAS’s ability to offer affordable airfares. Its low-cost business model, comprehensive route network, cost-cutting measures, and competition in the airline industry all play a role in SAS’s ability to keep its prices low. SAS is also committed to providing a positive customer experience and prioritizes sustainability. For travelers looking for affordable flights within Europe and beyond, SAS is a great option to consider.
