Summary of Finnair’s Business Class Experience
Though perhaps not the most well-known European airline, Finnair has a surprisingly large reach off the continent, flying into seven cities in the United States and 19 more across Asia via a growing fleet of more than 80 aircraft. The airline, which is part of the Oneworld alliance, also serves more than 100 cities in Europe, offering passengers from the U.S. and Asia connections via Helsinki. On a recent trip to the Finnish capital, I was able to try out the airline’s business-class product, flying from Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL) to John F. Kennedy (JFK) in New York aboard an A330.
1. Ground Experience
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is Finnair’s home base, and the airline uses both terminals. Terminal 1 is for domestic and Schengen flights, while Terminal 2 accommodates all other international flights. As I was flying to New York, I departed from Terminal 2, which has a large dedicated check-in area for Finnair passengers. The priority desks, for business-class passengers, Economy Pro travelers, and Oneworld status holders, were conveniently located, and didn’t have crowds during my late morning flight on a weekday.
Once through security, the walk from there to the Finnair lounge takes about 10 minutes at a leisurely pace, located outside gates 50A and 50B. Upon checking into the lounge, the agent informed me that my flight’s boarding would start at 11:30 a.m. for the 12:45 p.m. departure, but I could wait until noon due to extra security checks. This was an immensely helpful tip, as early arrivals found themselves in a small waiting area with limited seating.
The lounge was undergoing renovations during my visit in May 2019; though it didn’t feel chaotic, the absence of natural light made the space feel less spacious. The lounge showcased quintessential Nordic design, featuring minimalism and natural wood. There were two main seating areas: tables and chairs in the center, along with loungers and GoSleep pods on a mezzanine. Food options were limited to a hot and cold buffet due to ongoing renovations; beverages were self-service.
2. The Cabin and Seat
On the Airbus A330, Finnair employs a unique [2/1]-2-1 layout in business class, partitioned into two sections. The front has seven rows, while the back contains three, separated by the galley and a lavatory. Notably, the left side of the cabin features alternating pairs and a single seat, with the single seats, known as “throne seats,” offering extra space and privacy. Solo travelers should aim for these, while companions might prefer the pair seating.
I initially selected a throne seat but was reassigned to seat 10L, a single window seat. My seat was reasonably roomy, featuring 60 inches of pitch and 21 inches of width, and could transform into a lie-flat position extending 79 inches in length, providing ample comfort during the flight. While storage options were somewhat limited, a dedicated slot for shoes was a thoughtful addition. The use of overhead lights and adjustable temperature vents ensured adequate comfort.
3. Entertainment and In-Flight Amenities
Business-class passengers can enjoy 11-inch touchscreen monitors and a tethered remote. Although the screen size isn’t the largest in the industry, there was a sufficient selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games, including two live feed camera options. Complimentary Phitek noise-canceling headphones provided in business class offered a satisfactory audio experience.
Although Wi-Fi is generally available on most A330 flights, satellite issues limited connectivity during my journey. Business-class travelers usually receive one hour of free Wi-Fi, while Plus Platinum members enjoy complimentary access for the duration of the flight. Prices beyond the free hour are 7.95 euros for one hour, 11.95 euros for three hours, and 19.95 euros for the entire flight.
The amenity kit and bedding feature revered Finnish brand Marimekko’s distinctive textile patterns. However, the kit contents were limited, consisting mainly of an eye mask, toothbrush, toothpaste, earplugs, and lotion. Additional items are available upon request, and slippers were stored in the shoe slot provided.
4. Food and Beverage
Upon boarding, I was offered a pre-departure beverage selection of Joseph Perrier NV Cuvée Royale Brut, water, or blueberry juice. Following takeoff, I enjoyed an aperitif and amuse-bouche. The drink menu featured three specialty cocktails, multiple wines, and beverages, including a blueberry saison crafted exclusively for Finnair.
During the daytime flight, we were served lunch, light snacks, and a pre-arrival meal. The menu was creatively curated by renowned Swedish chef Tommy Myllymäki, presenting options for appetizers, mains, and desserts, all illustrating the popular Nordic culinary style. I savored roasted carrots and robust beef cheek, and finished with rich Finnish ice cream.
Throughout the flight, flight attendants kept the service flowing effortlessly, offering drinks and warm nuts as snacks. The pre-arrival meal was available to order at leisure, showcasing delicious smoked salmon sandwiches and cold platters. Overall, the food was indicative of Nordic cuisine, beautifully presented, and thoughtfully curated.
5. Service
The service was undeniably the standout aspect of my Finnair experience. The cabin crew exhibited attentiveness without being intrusive, ensuring that my glass was refilled promptly and proactively communicating about important details like Wi-Fi availability. My interactions with the crew were consistently pleasant, reminiscent of the commendable service I’ve also enjoyed while flying economy on Finnair.
6. Overall Impressions
Finnair’s business-class cabin on the A330 may lack the flashy amenities found on other airlines, yet it provides a comfortable experience for transatlantic travel. Ultimately, it is the exceptional service, embodying the Finnish hospitality ethos, that makes flying with this airline worthwhile.
