November 15, 2024, marks the 70th anniversary of a historic moment in aviation: the first commercial flight over the North Pole, operated by Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). This pioneering flight connected Copenhagen with Los Angeles in 1954, significantly reducing travel time and fuel consumption, while establishing an efficient link between Europe and the United States.The inaugural flight not only positioned SAS as a symbol of Scandinavian innovation but also transformed the way North America connects with Scandinavia, Europe, and beyond. Copenhagen became a strategic hub in the airline’s global network. The polar route reduced the flight distance by thousands of kilometers, achieving a considerable decrease in fuel consumption. Today, SAS associates this efficiency with its commitment to sustainability, highlighting its leadership in transforming the aviation industry toward a more environmentally friendly future.SAS President and CEO Anko van der Werff stated: “The introduction of the Polar Route marked a pivotal moment in global travel, enhancing economic ties, tourism, and cultural exchange by making the world more accessible. This legacy endures as SAS continues to drive innovation and connect people worldwide, with Copenhagen still at the heart of our global network.” The success of the flight required four years of preparation and innovative work. To ensure passenger safety in the Arctic’s extreme conditions, thermal suits and a survival manual were provided.To celebrate this historic date, the SAS flight between Copenhagen and Los Angeles operated on Friday the 15th featured special details commemorating the experience of the 1954 journey, taking passengers back to the origins of SAS’s Polar Route.
