SAS named world’s most punctual airline in boost for business travel

SAS has been named the world’s most punctual airline for May 2025, topping both the Global Airlines and European Major Airlines categories in Cirium’s monthly performance report.

This achievement is particularly relevant for UK-based business travellers flying with SAS, as it highlights improved operational reliability, reduced delays and a greater likelihood of arriving on time — critical factors when tight schedules and seamless connections are essential for successful business trips.

Over the past year, SAS has implemented a wide-reaching programme of internal enhancements designed to reduce delays and boost operational consistency. This has included more structured daily planning, better interdepartmental coordination, and a strategic use of operational data. The result has been a sustained improvement in on-time performance - with 89.72% of flights arriving punctually in May, outpacing Saudia and Aeromexico. This continues a strong run, with SAS also ranked number one in April and second in March.

Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of SAS, said: “This achievement is a tribute to our incredible teams across SAS - end-to-end planning from network and crews to technicians and operations control - who show true dedication every single day. It proves what’s possible when everyone pulls in the same direction. Improving punctuality takes daily focus, teamwork and thousands of smart decisions across the operation. It’s been a clear priority for us, knowing how much it matters to our customers and our own teams - and we’re seeing the difference it makes. Being ranked number one is a great moment for the entire SAS team, and a sign that the steps we’ve taken are delivering real results.”

According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, the SkyTeam alliance - of which SAS is a member - has dominated the top global punctuality rankings for the past three months. SAS has shown significant year-on-year progress, having risen from 15th place in 2023 to the number one position globally and in Europe in April and May 2025. Even amid high traffic and difficult seasonal conditions, the airline has maintained top-three placement consistently throughout the winter.

Mike Malik, Chief Marketing Officer at Cirium, added: “SAS is clearly on a strong trajectory. To go from 15th place in 2023 to taking the top spot in both Europe and Global categories—two months in a row - is no small feat. These results speak to a consistent focus on operational performance and a clear commitment to the customer experience. With an 89.72% on-time rate in May, SAS continues to set the pace. Congratulations again to Anko van der Werff and the entire team. It’s great to see this kind of momentum in action.”

As SAS continues to roll out internal targets, tightened turnaround processes and robust performance tracking, business travellers can expect continued enhancements in service reliability.

Paul Baker, Sales Director at Global Travel Management, commented: “This news is fantastic for business travellers in the UK. SAS’s commitment to punctuality means travellers can plan meetings and itineraries with greater confidence, knowing their flights are more likely to arrive on schedule. It’s another example of how airlines can create real value for business customers through operational excellence.”

If you would like more information about how SAS’s improved performance may benefit your business travel plans, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.