Finnair has been forced to cancel approximately 110 flights on Friday, May 30, due to industrial action by the Finnish Aviation Union (IAU) at Helsinki Airport. The strike, which mirrors previous actions earlier in May, is set to cause widespread disruption throughout the day, particularly affecting critical operations such as ground handling and aircraft maintenance.
The four-hour walkouts target different work shifts, extending the impact across Finnair's entire flight schedule. As a result, around 8,000 passengers are expected to be affected. Finnair has committed to offering alternative routing to affected customers, who can view their updated travel details via the Manage booking service on the airline's website or mobile app.
In anticipation of these disruptions, Finnair had already allowed customers scheduled to travel on strike dates to reschedule their flights in advance. Thousands have taken advantage of this option. The airline is also extending the opportunity to reschedule for passengers booked to fly on upcoming strike days, June 2, and 4, by contacting customer service or their original ticket provider.
Passengers whose flights are cancelled will receive direct communication from Finnair, including details of their rebooking options. Travellers can amend their new routing within available limits or opt to cancel their booking and request a refund for unused tickets.
Finnair's Chief Operating Officer, Jaakko Schildt, expressed regret over the disruptions, saying, “We are deeply sorry that our customers' important travel plans are once again disrupted. We are doing everything we can to provide our customers with alternative routing as quickly as possible.”
Customers travelling on Friday are advised to check in early, ensure their contact details are current, and pack essential items, such as medication, in their hand luggage, as baggage handling may also be affected. Finnair continues to monitor and assess the potential impact of further strikes planned for early June.
