SAS Cancels Flights Amidst Fuel Price Surge

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has canceled over 100 flight departures from Norwegian airports this week due to a sharp increase in fuel prices, impacting travel plans for numerous passengers. The cancellations come as global oil prices have surged following tensions in the Middle East.

Flight Cancellations and Passenger Rights

As of Wednesday, March 19, 2026, SAS had canceled approximately 110 flights from Norwegian airports including Bergen, Oslo, Trondheim, and Stavanger. Around 20 additional departures were canceled on Wednesday alone, according to Avinor’s website. SAS CEO Anko van der Werff stated the airline is attempting to protect its traffic as much as possible, but anticipates further cancellations after Easter, potentially reaching at least 1,000 departures in April.

Passengers affected by these cancellations are entitled to a refund, rebooking, or compensation of up to 600 euros per person, according to the Consumer Council. The right to compensation applies even if the increased fuel prices are linked to an extraordinary event like the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Rising Fuel Costs and Industry Impact

The price of Brent crude oil reached nearly $120 a barrel in early March 2026, before settling back to around $90. Prior to the recent conflict, prices were in the low- to mid-$70s range. This increase has put significant pressure on airlines globally. SAS has introduced a temporary fuel surcharge in response to the rising costs.

Øystein Schmidt, Communications Manager for SAS Norway, explained that the entire European aviation system is feeling the pressure of the “sudden fuel shock.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable air connections and securing trade routes. SAS may consider raising prices if the crisis persists, according to van der Werff.

Specific Flight Cancellations (March 19, 2026)

The following is a partial list of canceled SAS departures on Wednesday, March 19, 2026, as reported by Avinor:

• From Oslo: SK2110 (to Kristiansand), SK308 (to Haugesund), SK230 (to Kristiansund), SK1927 (to Aarhus), SK2305 (to Kristiansund), SK382 (to Trondheim)
• From Bergen: SK4135 (to Stavanger), SK4154 (to Trondheim), SK4167 (to Stavanger), SK4173 (to Stavanger)
• From Stavanger: SK4152 (to Mons), SK4488 (to Trondheim), SK4611 (to Aberdeen), SK4170 (to Bergen), SK4615 (to Aberdeen), SK4194 (to Bergen)
• From Trondheim: SK4489 (to Stavanger), SK4141 (to Bergen), SK341 (to Oslo), SK2472 (to Stockholm), SK4175 (to Bergen)

Consumer Council Advice

Thomas Iversen, Head of Department at the Consumer Council, advises passengers to allow SAS to attempt rebooking. If a new itinerary is unsuitable, passengers have the right to a refund or to rebook themselves and claim compensation for the cost of a new ticket. Passengers are likewise entitled to compensation for expenses directly related to the cancellation.

SAS Denies Other Contributing Factors

While the leader of the Pilots’ Association suggested a pay dispute may also be contributing to the cancellations, SAS denies that any factors other than the situation in the Middle East and increased fuel prices are responsible.