Scandinavian Airlines Forecasts Revenue to Exceed $4.57 Billion by 2024, Aims to Exit Chapter 11

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Scandinavia's largest carrier, announced on Tuesday that its forecasted revenue will exceed 48 billion Swedish crowns ($4.57 billion) in 2024. The airline, which recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, expressed optimism about its future prospects.

According to Reuters, SAS is confident that it will emerge from its amended Chapter 11 plan of reorganization by the end of the first half of the year. Yahoo reported that the carrier plans to file the updated projections with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York.

Addressing Debt and Financial Projections

As part of the ongoing restructuring process, the company expects its net debt to range between 36 billion and 39 billion Swedish crowns before emerging from Chapter 11. Post-reorganization, the projected debt is set to decrease to between 22 billion and 24 billion Swedish crowns.

SAS made it clear that existing shareholders will not retain any value, as all common shares and listed commercial hybrid bonds will be cancelled, redeemed, and delisted upon emergence from the Chapter 11 process. These measures aim to position the airline for long-term financial stability.

Investment Agreement and Recapitalization Approval

In November of last year, SAS successfully secured U.S. bankruptcy court approval for a 13.2 billion Swedish crown investment agreement. The agreement, reached with a consortium comprising Castlelake, Air France-KLM, Lind Invest, and the Danish state, injected much-needed capital into the struggling airline.

The airline remains on track to present the amended Chapter 11 plan and final projections to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Simultaneously, SAS received approval from EU competition authorities for its 833 million euros ($904.39 million) recapitalization plan, supported by Denmark and Sweden.

SAS's decision to file for bankruptcy protection came after grappling with high costs and reduced demand caused by the global pandemic. With clear financial goals and a new structure, the airline believes it can achieve a successful turnaround and emerge as a stronger industry player.

By setting ambitious revenue targets and implementing structural changes, SAS is positioning itself for a resilient future. As it strides confidently into 2024, the airline aims to regain its status as a leading player in the global aviation industry.

Photo: Businesswire