Travel Flash Report

TRAVEL FLASH - September 16, 2025

Breaking: SAS Launches First-Ever Direct Scandinavia–South Korea Route, Marking Major Global Network Expansion

TOP 3 STORIES:
1. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has inaugurated its Copenhagen–Seoul service, the first direct link between Scandinavia and South Korea, operating four times weekly with Airbus A350-900s. This move, following SAS’s entry into SkyTeam, signals a new era of transcontinental connectivity and competitive alliance dynamics for both business and leisure travelers[1].

2. The US airline industry remains highly concentrated in 2025, with the top four carriers controlling nearly 75% of domestic capacity and American Airlines leading with a 20% market share. Stable domestic demand and aggressive low-cost carrier strategies are intensifying competition, while international travel volumes face headwinds from global uncertainty[2].

3. Orlando International Airport (MCO) has completed a major FAA assessment for integrating electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxi operations, identifying two potential vertiport sites. This positions MCO as a leader in next-generation airport mobility, offering new multimodal options for travelers and airlines as eVTOL technology nears commercial viability[3].

Flash Insight:
Global route expansion is accelerating, with airlines targeting underserved city pairs and leveraging alliance shifts to unlock new markets. US carriers are doubling down on digital engagement and loyalty programs to defend market share amid fierce low-cost competition and shifting international demand. Airport infrastructure is rapidly evolving, with eVTOL integration and sustainable ground transport emerging as critical differentiators for future-ready hubs.

Sources:
[1] https://theflyingengineer.com/50-new-routes-set-to-launch-in-september/
[2] https://www.sphericalinsights.com/blogs/united-states-airline-industry-market-2025-market-share-passenger-demand-and-top-airlines-overview
[3] https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airports-networks/airport-updates-latest-news-global-market-wc-sept-15-2025