Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is set to significantly increase the number of flights connecting Oslo to the remote Svalbard (Svalbard) archipelago. According to Svalbardposten, daily flights will commence as early as next week, enhancing accessibility to this northernmost inhabited region of Norway.
Increased connectivity to the Arctic Archipelago
Starting in mid-February, SAS will operate ten weekly flights between Oslo and Svalbard Airport (Svalbard lufthavn, Longyear). This frequency will increase further in April, reaching twelve weekly departures. At its peak during the summer season, SAS will offer up to 16 flights per week. Even in the autumn, the airline plans to maintain a robust schedule with nine weekly departures.
“There will be a significant strengthening of the route offering compared to 2024,” said Øystein Schmidt, SAS Norway’s press officer, in an interview with Svalbardposten.
Svalbard: a unique Arctic destination
The Svalbard archipelago is located in the Arctic Ocean, roughly midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Known for its breathtaking glaciers, rugged mountains, and diverse wildlife, including polar bears, reindeer, and Arctic foxes, Svalbard has become an increasingly popular destination for adventure tourism and scientific research.
Longyearbyen, the largest settlement, serves as the administrative center and is home to a small but vibrant community. The town offers visitors an array of activities, from dog sledding and snowmobiling to witnessing the Northern Lights in winter and the Midnight Sun in summer.
A strategic move for SAS
The expansion of SAS’s flight routes to Svalbard underscores the airline’s commitment to strengthening Norway’s Arctic connectivity. The increased capacity will cater to both tourism and local business needs, as well as researchers and residents who rely on consistent air travel.
With this enhanced schedule, SAS aims to meet growing demand while providing greater flexibility for travelers seeking to explore one of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.
