This is a weird time in the world.

Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS), the flag carrier of Denmark, Norway and Sweden shuts down due to the essentially non-existing demand for air travel from Monday March 16 and until further notice.

The airline said “

Due to the coronavirus and the measures implemented by national authorities, the demand for air travel is essentially non-existent. SAS has therefore decided to put most of its operations on hold, starting Monday March 16 and until necessary prerequisites for commercial air traffic returns.

To support our customers, we will in the next few days do our utmost to uphold a certain level of operation to enable travelers to return from their destinations.

Information regarding the traffic situation and specific flights will be constantly updated on our website. Affected passengers will be notified.

The waiting time at our call centers is extraordinary long. We kindly ask that you only call us if your flight departs within the next 3 days.

TOMORROW MONDAY MARCH 16TH WE WILL PUBLISH MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE TEMPORARY CHANGES REGARDING OUR TRAFFIC PROGRAM.

We are deeply sorry for the inconvenience.”

Most of their staff should have better financial support than employees of other airlines because of the strong state welfare systems in their home countries.

Statement is here: