Norwegian Wins Tender for Denmark’s First “Green Domestic Route”

From spring 2026, Norwegian will operate the Aalborg–Copenhagen route with 40% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), marking the EU’s first SAF-based domestic route and a major step toward greener flying.

 

Norwegian has been awarded the contract for Denmark’s pioneering “green domestic route” between Aalborg and Copenhagen, which will operate with at least 40% SAF from March 2026. This major milestone—enabled by collaboration with AFSN, DCC & Shell Aviation, and Aalborg Airport—makes it the first domestic route of its kind in the EU.

As part of the agreement, SAF will be supplied and refueled directly at Aalborg Airport, thanks to the airport’s existing infrastructure and close coordination with Norwegian and its partners.

The Aalborg–Copenhagen route is one of Denmark’s busiest, with around 4,100 annual flights and 800,000 seats offered by Norwegian each year. The initiative aims to inspire similar efforts across Europe by demonstrating the practical viability of SAF on a major domestic connection.

A Model for Europe’s Aviation Transition

“This is a bold and necessary step that sets the tone for how aviation can reduce its emissions,” said Sara Neergaard, Norwegian’s Director of Communications and Public Affairs in Denmark. “We’re proud to lead the way and hope other countries follow suit.”

Aalborg Airport’s CEO, Niels Hemmingsen, added: “This route proves that sustainability and aviation are not mutually exclusive. The collaboration shows real change is possible—here and now.”

Key Facts About the Route

• Launch: March 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027

• SAF share: Minimum 40% on ~93% of flights

• Total flights: ~4,100 per year

• CO₂ savings cost: 8,705 DKK per ton

• SAF supplied and tanked in Aalborg

• First SAF-based domestic route tender in the EU