Finnair today inaugurates a new era in travel between Europe and Asia – and opens a new chapter in its history – as tickets go on sale for its first long-haul destinations to be served with next-generation A350-XWB aircraft. Finnair is the European launch customer, and only the third worldwide, of the completely new aircraft type, which substantially raises the bar for passenger comfort, environmental performance and operational efficiency.
This moment in aviation history will also be marked by the first commercial services of the A350-WXB into London Heathrow from Helsinki, which will operate as crew familiarisation flights during October. The full list of planned crew familiarisation flights is published online at a350.finnair.com . Finnair is also the first airline in the world to operate the A350 on scheduled services to China, where Shanghai will be served with a daily A350 service from 25th October 2015. Beijing follows with a daily A350 service on 21st November 2015.
Finnair’s peak-season frequencies to Bangkok will be served with a combination of A350 and modern, comfortable A330 aircraft from 4th December 2015. Daily services to Hong Kong from 1st February 2016 and to Singapore from 5th May 2016 will also be operated with a combination of A350 and A330 aircraft.
Customers can determine the planned aircraft type of their flight by clicking on the flight number during the online booking process at Finnair.com, or by consulting with their travel agent. Changes in aircraft type are possible for operational reasons.
“We are thrilled to reach this important milestone as we gear up for a seamless transition to A350 operations,” said Pekka Vauramo, Chief Executive. “Our A350 investment programme is the largest in the company’s 92-year history, and these aircraft will form the backbone of our long-haul operations for years to come, while also playing an essential role in our sustainable, long-term profitability. I can truly speak for all employees when I say we cannot wait to welcome passengers on board.”
