SAS CEO Anko van der Werff receives the Aviation Award 2025

The jury has unanimously selected Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of Scandinavian Airlines, as the recipient of the Danish Aviation Award 2025. He is recognized for his outstanding leadership in steering SAS through one of the most challenging financial periods in the airline’s history and positioning the company for long-term growth. 

In its motivation, the jury emphasized SAS’ vital role in Denmark and Danish aviation. As part of the Scandinavian DNA, the airline supports thousands of jobs nationwide and serves as a gateway to the world for business and industry. With SAS’ expanding network, new global opportunities continue to open. 

The jury also emphasized Van der Werff’s leadership in successfully completing a complex restructuring, restoring profitability, and strengthening SAS’ network by joining SkyTeam and expanding intercontinental services from its global hub in Copenhagen. At the same time, SAS has invested in a modern fleet, achieved world-class punctuality, and taken a role in shaping a more sustainable aviation industry. 

“This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of the entire SAS team,” said Anko van der Werff, President & CEO of SAS. “Together, we have taken SAS through an extraordinary transformation, securing our future and building the foundation for long-term growth. I am very proud of what we have achieved so far and more determined than ever to seize the opportunities ahead, further strengthen our network, and deliver an exceptional experience for every SAS customer.” 

About the award:  

The Luftfartsprisen (“Aviation Award”) honors individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the aviation industry in Denmark, Greenland or the Faroe Islands – either within the past year or over a longer career. The award is presented annually in connection with the Danish Travel Awards, and the jury consists of leading representatives from the Danish aviation and transport sector: 

• Mathias Milling, Head of Secretariat, Danish Aviation Association | DI Transport 

• Jesper Kronborg, Director, Danish Chamber of Commerce Transport 

• Morten Balk, Board Member, Board of Airlines Representatives in Denmark 

• Dan Banja, Secretary General, ES-DAA | Association of Business Aviation 

• Ole Kirchert Christensen, Editor-in-Chief, CHECK-IN.dk