Melbourne Airport has welcomed Finnair’s first service to Australia operated under its own aircraft and airline code, with flight AY145 arriving from Helsinki.
The airline will now operate daily from Melbourne to Bangkok, Helsinki and onward destinations across Europe using an Airbus A350.
Finnair’s arrival makes Melbourne the only Australian city to be served by an airline from the European Union with the new service worth an estimated $190 million a year to the Victorian economy.
The service gives passengers a choice of economy, premium economy and business class, including Finnair’s AirLounge seat.
The route provides connections through Helsinki to around 90 destinations across Europe, including Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland.
Lorie Argus, Melbourne Airport CEO, said the new service would increase options for both travellers and exporters.
“Thanks to fifth-freedom rights, passengers can book with Finnair to access Bangkok or a well-earned break on Thailand’s renowned beaches,” Ms Argus said.
“Alternatively, people can make the most of this new service to see Finland’s northern lights or visit Europe’s cultural capitals.
“The airline’s award-winning Helsinki hub is recognised as one of Europe’s most convenient transit points, with onward connections available to around 90 destinations on the continent.”
Christine Rovelli, Finnair Chief Revenue Officer, said it was fantastic to see the first Finnair flight arrive in Melbourne.
“This is an important milestone for us, bringing Finnair’s own flights to Australia for the first time and creating a new daily connection between Melbourne, Finland and the rest of Europe,” Ms Rovelli said.
“We are very excited to welcome Australian customers on board and equally excited to bring more European travellers to Melbourne and Victoria.”
