The SAS Group Traffic figures August 2006

SAS Group traffic figures August 2006

· SAS Group carried 3,4 million passengers in August 2006, up 4,3% vs 2005.

· SAS Group load factor for August increased 0,4 p.u. to 74,7%.

· SAS Group traffic increased by 3,6% vs 2005.

Group market trends and yield development

SAS Group traffic increased by 3,6% in August and capacity was up 3,1% due to strong growth in Blue1 and airBaltic. Cabin factor increased by 0,4 p.u. to 74,7%. Number of passengers increased by 4,3%.

The trend with improved passenger load factor continues, but at a lower pace due to stronger comparable figures. Yield for Scandinavian Airlines in July was up 11%, positively affected by yield management to offset record high jet fuel prices and focus on dynamic traffic planning. In August yield is expected to be positive vs last year but the increase will probably be somewhat lower than for July.

The market growth is stable and yield environment has improved, but there are still uncertainties due to the competitive situation and continued record high jet fuel prices. The strategy is to offset the increase through hedging, yield management and cost reductions.