Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) operates regular services to Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, bringing travelers from Scandinavia into one of the world’s most convenient city-airports. If you’re flying SAS to or from Haneda, this guide covers what to expect at the terminal, key practicalities (check-in, security, lounges, transfers), plus tips to make the experience smoother.
Where does SAS operate at Haneda?
SAS’s Tokyo services arrive and depart from Haneda’s international terminal — Terminal 3 (formerly known as “International Terminal”). Haneda groups most international carriers and international departures in Scandinavian Airlines HND Terminal, which is designed for efficient arrival/departure flows and easy ground-transport connections to central Tokyo. If your ticket/itinerary shows “HND” and the airline is SAS (SK), assume Terminal 3 unless your airline or airport notifications say otherwise.
Check-in and pre-departure
- Check-in counters: On most days SAS check-in for international flights is located in the international departures area of Terminal 3. Counter locations can vary by flight, so check your flight board after arriving at the terminal or use the Haneda website/airport screens to confirm the exact counter number. If you arrive early, SAS’s online and mobile check-in options let you save time at the terminal
- Baggage: Standard international baggage rules apply for SAS long-haul flights — check your fare type for included allowance and excess baggage charges. For connecting passengers, confirm whether bags are checked through to your final destination (especially on codeshare itineraries) at check-in.
- Security & immigration: Terminal 3 is built for high throughput, but global peak times (early morning and late evening) can create queues. Keep travel documents ready and allow extra time if you have a tight connection.
Lounges and pre-flight comfort
SAS operates its lounges at key Scandinavian hubs, but at many long-haul destinations it relies on partner lounges. SAS’s website outlines lounge access rules and partner arrangements — if you hold Business Class, a qualifying EuroBonus status, or eligible fare, check SAS’s lounge page for which lounge you’ll be admitted to at Haneda. Haneda is also home to carrier lounges run by Japanese partners (for example ANA lounge facilities), which are commonly used by Star Alliance members or partners. Always confirm access rules the day of travel.
Onwards connections and transfers at Haneda
- Inter-terminal transfers: Haneda’s terminals are connected by shuttle buses and walkways; transfers between domestic and international terminals are straightforward but allow time — particularly if you need to clear immigration or collect/reattach baggage. Terminal 3 handles most international arrivals and departures, simplifying transfers for international-to-international itineraries.
- Customs and immigration: International arrivals clear immigration at Terminal 3. If you have a connection to a domestic flight, you may need to pass through customs and revalidate baggage depending on your ticketing — ask SAS staff at check-in for exact procedures.
Passenger facilities: dining, shopping, services
Terminal 3 offers a broad selection of restaurants, cafés and duty-free shopping geared to international travelers. Whether you want a quick coffee, a sit-down meal before a long flight, or last-minute gifts, the terminal’s retail areas are extensive and usually open for the bulk of the international schedule. The terminal also provides free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and travel services (currency exchange, SIM kiosks).
Practical tips for SAS passengers at Haneda
- Double-check terminal and gate — airlines sometimes change gates; check the Haneda flight screens and your SAS mobile notifications on the day of travel
- Use online check-in — SAS’s online check-in reduces queuing; you can usually choose seats and get a mobile boarding pass 24 hours before departure.
- Lounge access — if lounge comfort matters, verify whether SAS will grant access to a partner lounge at Haneda for your fare/class/loyalty status; printed boarding passes or app screenshots may be required
- Arrival timing — Haneda’s proximity to central Tokyo makes it attractive for business travelers; however, for early-morning check-ins and peak arrivals allow 2–3 hours for international departures and at least 90 minutes for arrivals if you have onward plans
Accessibility and special assistance
Haneda is well equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators, tactile guidance, accessible toilets, and staff assistance on request. SAS provides special assistance on request when booking or at check-in — contact SAS customer service ahead of departure to arrange wheelchair service, escorting, or other needs.
Ground transport to Tokyo
One of Haneda’s strengths is its proximity to downtown Tokyo. Options from Terminal 3 include airport limousine buses, the Keikyu and Tokyo Monorail lines (connections at Haneda Airport stations), taxis and ride-share services. The choice depends on your budget, luggage, and desired travel time — trains are typically the fastest into central Tokyo during daytime.
Flight pattern & seasonality
SAS has advertised a daily direct service between Copenhagen and Tokyo (Haneda) — a route that suits both leisure and corporate travelers connecting Scandinavia with Japan. Frequencies can vary seasonally and can also be affected by broader airline scheduling decisions; always check SAS’s route page or your booking details for the most current schedule before planning.
Troubleshooting and customer service
If you run into disruptions (delays, re-routing, baggage issues), SAS ground staff at the Scandinavian Airlines check-in desk are your first point of contact. For complex disruptions or when flights are operated by partners, SAS customer service (via app, phone or at the desk) will advise rebooking and hotel/accommodation rules if they apply.
Final thoughts
Flying SAS to or from Haneda generally means operating through Terminal 3 — a modern, passenger-friendly international terminal with excellent connections into Tokyo. Preparation is the best ally: check your SAS booking for terminal and check-in instructions, use online check-in, confirm lounge access in advance, and allow sufficient time for immigration and baggage procedures. With those simple steps you’ll find Haneda a smooth gateway to Tokyo when traveling with Scandinavian Airlines