As Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) turns the page on its Star Alliance chapter and enters a new era aligned with Air France-KLM and part of the SkyTeam alliance, it is restoring business class on intra-Europe flights.
Intra-Europe Business Class Returns To SAS
Currently, SAS offers an “SAS Plus” product on intra-Europe routes (the same thing the carrier calls it longhaul premium economy product). Unlike traditional business class within Europe, there are no blocked middle seats, though complimentary snacks, drinks, and light meals are served, plus priority check-in, expedited security, and lounge access are included.
Here’s an example of what that service looks like:
Full review here.
With the restoration of business class—expected to roll out sometime in 2025 according to One Mile At A Time—expect blocked middle seats, a curtain separating cabins, and perhaps even the restoration of nicer meals on ceramics with the re-introduction of business class.
I fondly recall intra-Europe business class on SAS a decade ago before the switch to SAS Plus…the hot meals were delicious:
> Read More: Comparing Scandinavian Lunches in SAS Business Class
> Read More: A Sensible Stewardship Suggestion For SAS
Part of the SAS pivot from Star Alliance to SkyTeam is a plan to join the transatlantic joint venture that already includes Air France, Delta Air Lines, KLM, and Virgin Atlantic. Offering a consistent product on intra-Europe flights diminishes the risk of folks who refuse to fly anything but business class or higher from booking away. SAS won’t have to do much to transition its cabins from “Plus” to “Business Class.”
CONCLUSION
SAS will bring back business class on its intra-Europe flight. While infrequent flyers may still be shocked to learn “business class” is still an economy class seat, there should at least be a blocked middle seat, more food onboard, complimentary wi-fi, and a dedicated lavatory, all little touches that make a difference.
