Travel Flash Report

TRAVEL FLASH - September 28, 2025

Breaking: US Airlines Expand International Reach as 50 New Routes Launch Globally in September

TOP 3 STORIES:
1. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) debuts nonstop Copenhagen–Seoul flights, marking its first direct link between Scandinavia and South Korea and leveraging its new SkyTeam partnership for expanded European connectivity. This move positions SAS as the sole carrier on the Denmark–South Korea route, offering travelers more options for trans-Eurasian travel[1].

2. United Airlines leads US seat growth in September, adding over 814,000 seats year-over-year, while Breeze Airways posts a 65% capacity increase, focusing on underserved secondary markets with efficient A220 aircraft. Frequent travelers will benefit from increased route choices and competitive fares, especially in regions previously lacking direct service[2][3].

3. China Eastern Airlines launches Shanghai–Barcelona and resumes Shanghai–Vancouver, capitalizing on Russian airspace access for shorter, cost-effective European routes. This expansion strengthens China Eastern’s position in the transpacific and Europe markets, offering travelers more direct options and potentially lower fares[1].

Flash Insight: September 2025 marks a pivotal month for global route expansion, with major airlines targeting both established and emerging markets to capture pent-up demand and diversify their networks. US carriers are intensifying competition domestically and internationally, leveraging digital platforms and loyalty programs to retain market share amid shifting capacity trends. The surge in new intercontinental links and secondary market growth signals a robust recovery and evolving traveler preferences, with cost efficiency and connectivity driving strategic decisions.

Sources:
[1] https://aviationweek.com/air-transport/airports-networks/50-new-routes-launching-september-2025
[2] https://www.sphericalinsights.com/blogs/united-states-airline-industry-market-2025-market-share-passenger-demand-and-top-airlines-overview
[3] https://www.oag.com/us-aviation-market