SAS celebrates seven decades of pioneering polar air routes

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is celebrating 70 years since it first flew over the North Pole, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. On November 15, 1954, SAS became the first airline to operate a commercial flight over the North Pole, establishing a direct route from Copenhagen to Los Angeles. This achievement created "the most efficient link between Europe and the USA," according to SAS.

To commemorate this historic event, SAS offered passengers on its Copenhagen–Los Angeles flight special touches reminiscent of the original journey. The airline states that flying over the North Pole reduced travel distance by "thousands of kilometers," resulting in significant fuel savings. "By operating flights over the Polar Regions, SAS transformed how North America connects to Scandinavia, to Europe, and beyond," says SAS.

SAS President and CEO Anko van der Werff highlights the importance of this route: “SAS’s introduction of the Polar Route marked a landmark moment in global travel, enhancing economic ties, tourism, and cultural exchange by making the world more accessible."