Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has confirmed plans to open a new signature lounge at Copenhagen Airport (CPH) in June 2027. The facility will occupy the fourth floor of Terminal 3, offering panoramic views of the runways and a design that reflects the carrier's Nordic heritage.
The lounge is part of SAS's broader effort to strengthen Copenhagen as its primary hub, a strategy that has already seen the reintroduction of European business class and upgrades to partner lounges across Europe. With passenger numbers climbing, the airline is investing in ground experiences to match its in-flight product.
Larger footprint, more amenities
The new lounge will be 40% larger than the current one, with capacity to welcome up to 4,000 visitors daily. It will feature 24 private work pods, dedicated family and social areas, and private hotel-style rooms for travellers needing rest between connections. A digital occupancy monitoring system will help manage guest flow, ensuring comfort even during peak departure banks.
Paul Verhagen, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, described the lounge as "a destination of its own, redefining the journey." He added: "Designed with clean Nordic aesthetics and a calm atmosphere, it is built to give travellers space to breathe."
The food and beverage programme will include a dedicated bar, barista-brewed coffee, and a bakery offering freshly baked pastries. The menu will blend Scandinavian and international influences, with offerings that change throughout the day to match traveller needs.
Exclusive Zone for top-tier customers
A key feature is the Exclusive Zone, reserved for SAS's most loyal top-tier customers. This area will provide a more private and elevated experience, catering to frequent flyers who expect a higher level of service. The move mirrors trends seen across the industry, where airlines are segmenting lounge spaces to reward elite members.
The investment in Copenhagen comes as other hubs also enhance their passenger experiences. For example, Taoyuan Airport has turned layovers into cultural experiences, and Bohol Airport has expanded its retail mix with local brands and duty-free. These developments highlight a broader industry focus on making airport time more productive and enjoyable.
SAS's lounge plans also align with the growing recognition of premium ground services. Plaza Premium Group recently secured its tenth consecutive Skytrax lounge award, underscoring the competitive landscape in airport hospitality.
Verhagen emphasised the strategic importance of the project: "As passenger numbers grow and we strengthen Copenhagen as our main hub, this lounge reflects our ongoing development." The airline expects the new facility to set a benchmark for Scandinavian airport lounges, combining functionality with a calm, inviting atmosphere.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the coming years, with the lounge opening slated for June 2027. SAS has not disclosed the total investment, but the project is seen as a key component of its post-restructuring growth strategy.
