SAS CEO Anko van der Werff to Depart at Start of 2027
SAS announced on July 8, 2026, that its President and CEO, Anko van der Werff, will leave the airline at the beginning of 2027 to become CEO of Air Canada.
Scandinavian airline SAS announced on July 8, 2026, that its President and CEO, Anko van der Werff, has informed the board of his decision to leave the company at the beginning of 2027. He is set to take on the role of Chief Executive Officer at Air Canada.
Van der Werff will remain in his current position until the transition, ensuring continuity for SAS's ongoing strategic initiatives and operations. The airline's board has stated it will initiate the process to appoint a successor. Specific details regarding the search process were not disclosed.
During van der Werff's tenure, SAS has undergone a significant transformation, completing a major restructuring and strengthening both its financial and operational standing. The airline has emphasized its focus on operational performance and reliability, which it states has positioned it as the world's most punctual airline.
In addition to operational improvements, SAS has invested in customer experience and fleet modernization, including a substantial order for Airbus widebody aircraft. The company also joined the SkyTeam alliance, aiming to enhance its global network and partnerships.