The SAS Group Traffic figures -- June 2003

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, July 07, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- The SAS Group (Other OTC:SASDF)


 - The SAS Group transported a total of 2.9 million passengers in 
   June 2003 vs 3.1 million in 2002, a decrease of 5.3%.
 - Total passenger traffic (RPK) decreased by 1.2% vs 2002.
 - Overall group passenger load factor decreased by 2.8 p.u to 69.3%
   for June 2003 vs. 2002.

Market trends and yield development The traffic development in June is reflecting a gradually improving demand environment compared with the previous months. Traffic on North America has recovered and passenger load factor gradually surpassed 90% in June. Forward bookings for Asian routes are also improving, but from a low level. Traffic in Spanair and Braathens developed positively, up 14,0% and 21,5% respectively, but it must be noted that also these airlines experience a significant pressure on yields.

Indications of passenger yield development for Scandinavian Airlines in May indicate an continued pressure as a result of negative mix, a number of sales campaigns and new market initiatives. Yields on the European routes were down 16% in May, affected by the introduction of the new low fare initiative Snowflake (8-9 p.u.) and the holiday pattern in May. Underlying development is similar to previous months.

The overall yield development in May is slightly better than the figures reported for the previous months, however the yield pressure for European short haul routes is still significant. Forceful cost measures are under implementation to secure a sustained profitability level in this lower yield environment. Due to the situation with continued weak economies and the general uncertainties, the outlook remains cautious.

The SAS Group Traffic figures -- June 2003

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