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Finnair impresses with its new Business Class cabin

Henrik Hanevold Henrik Hanevold Feb 10, 2022
Finnair impresses with its new Business Class cabin

Finnair, Finland’s flagship airline, has elevated long-haul travel with its latest Business Class offering. The refreshed cabin features innovative seating, refined dining, expanded personal space, and contemporary Nordic-inspired aesthetics. Recognizing the increasing demand for premium travel, Finnair has also debuted its inaugural long-haul Premium Economy cabin.

According to Ole Orvér, Finnair’s Chief Commercial Officer, “Demand for premium leisure travel continues to surge, shaping the future of our onboard experience.”

These new cabins are now available across Finnair’s fleet of A350 and A330 aircraft, with all long-haul planes scheduled to feature the updated Business Class, Premium Economy, and enhanced Economy cabins by 2026.

Finnair’s design philosophy—termed “modern premium”—blends its iconic Nordic-cool ambiance with natural woods, deep blue accents, and soft greys, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and sophisticated.

The centrepiece of the Business Class is the AirLounge seat, which forgoes traditional reclining for a fixed, sculpted shell. Passengers can easily adjust the foot and leg rest to discover their ideal lounging or sleeping position at the touch of a button.

Drawing inspiration from high-end lounge furniture, the AirLounge prioritizes comfort, generous personal space, and freedom of movement for every traveler.

David Kondo, Finnair’s Head of Customer Experience Design, explains, “Our vision was to make the cabin feel like an elegant living room in the sky. By removing complex mechanisms and introducing 3D curved shells, we’ve unlocked a more flexible, open environment that encourages you to relax in your own way.”

The high cocoon-like shell offers excellent privacy, and adjustable dividers provide flexibility for solo travelers or those flying together. Unlike some competitors, these seats do not include fully closing doors.

Signature Finnish touches abound: Marimekko has crafted plush duvets and pillows exclusively for Business Class guests, while designer Harri Koskinen’s bespoke tableware complements the refined new menus. Finnair’s iconic Iittala Ultima Thule glassware remains a highlight on every tray table. 

 

Finnair Premium Economy: Elevated Comfort for Discerning Travelers

Each Premium Economy cabin is limited to just 26 seats, offering travelers a sanctuary with 50% more room than standard Economy. Guests benefit from ergonomically enhanced seating and an upgraded culinary experience onboard.

Exclusive amenities include expanded charging outlets and personalized ambient lighting, while a generous 13-inch (33-centimeter) entertainment screen ensures immersive inflight entertainment.

In 2025, Finnair operates flights to nearly 100 global destinations, including expanded long-haul service to Busan in South Korea, Tokyo Haneda in Japan, and major U.S. gateways such as Dallas and Seattle.

Long-haul routes remain central to Finnair’s growth, with its “modern premium” ethos reflected throughout the journey. Each cabin features dedicated refreshment stations, catering to the increasing Nordic appetite for luxury travel.

With an investment of €200 million in its long-haul fleet, Finnair is redefining the standards of premium air travel—early feedback suggests the strategy is resonating well with travelers worldwide.

 

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