Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has taken a significant step towards modernizing its fleet by placing a firm order for 45 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, with options for an additional 10. This deal, valued at 25 billion kroner ($3.95 billion), marks the airline's largest investment since 1996 and underscores its commitment to enhancing regional connectivity across Scandinavia and beyond. The E195-E2, known for its fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels, is set to replace older models in SAS's fleet, aligning with the airline's sustainability goals and operational efficiency.

The announcement was made by SAS CEO Anko van der Werff during a press conference in Copenhagen, where he highlighted the strategic importance of the new aircraft in connecting smaller Scandinavian cities to the airline's intercontinental hubs. 'This order represents the strongest sign of our successful transformation,' van der Werff stated, emphasizing the role of the E195-E2 in SAS's broader mission to link Scandinavia with the world. The first deliveries are expected in 2027, with the aircraft primarily serving routes within the Nordic region.

This fleet expansion comes as SAS emerges from a challenging period marked by financial struggles and a Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection filing in July 2022, largely due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on global travel. The airline completed its restructuring in August 2024, setting the stage for this significant investment in its future. The deal with Embraer not only revitalizes SAS's fleet but also strengthens its partnership with the Brazilian manufacturer, building on existing operations that include older E195 jets.

The E195-E2 order is a testament to SAS's resilience and forward-looking strategy, as it seeks to position itself as a leading carrier in the competitive aviation market. With the support of its main owners, including the Danish and Swedish states and Air France-KLM, SAS is poised to embark on a new chapter of growth and innovation. The airline's focus on sustainability, efficiency, and enhanced connectivity reflects its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of passengers and the demands of the modern aviation industry.

Norwegian authorities are investigating an incident where a man suspected of attempted murder was injured during his arrest on the E18 highway in Sandefjord. The Special Unit for Police Matters has launched a mandatory investigation after the suspect sustained a fracture injury while being apprehended by police officers. Evidence from the scene has been secured as part of the probe into the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

The investigation stems from events that began Saturday evening when a woman was shot at a private address in the Unneberg area north of Sandefjord city center. The suspect fled the scene on an electric scooter following the shooting incident, which occurred around 3 PM. Police established a roadblock on the E18 highway as part of their response to the shooting.

The suspect was apprehended at approximately 7:45 PM at the police roadblock, during which he sustained injuries described as a fracture. While the extent of his injuries remains unclear, the Special Unit has initiated its investigation to clarify the sequence of events and circumstances leading to the injury. Both the suspect and the involved police officers will be interviewed in the coming days as part of the mandatory review process.

The man, who has provided an initial statement to police, has been formally charged with attempted murder and was remanded in custody by the Vestfold District Court on Monday morning. Police indicate the suspect and victim were acquainted but did not have a close relationship. The woman who was shot did not sustain life-threatening injuries, though her exact condition remains unknown as authorities continue their parallel investigations into both the shooting incident and the arrest-related injury.