Finnair Reports Rising Demand from India with Fastest Nordic Connections via Helsinki

A smooth one-stop route to the Nordics

When travel patterns between India and Europe shift, one airline that continues to draw attention is Finnair. Positioned as a key gateway to the Nordic region, the carrier is seeing renewed interest from Indian travellers seeking efficient routes to Europe’s northern capitals, Finland’s Arctic destinations and onward global connections.

According to Anupam Vig, General Manager India, Finnair, the airline’s geographical location gives it a natural advantage. He explained that Finland’s position enables smooth transfers through Helsinki Airport, with the layout designed for short walking distances and quick connections that often take under an hour. He added that the combination of reliable schedules, a modern fleet and Nordic hospitality has made Finnair a practical choice for those heading to the Nordics and wider Europe. “Travellers often tell us that the predictability and ease of connecting through Helsinki is one of the biggest reasons they choose Finnair,” Vig said.

At present, the airline operates up to 7 weekly flights between Delhi and Helsinki, with India remaining a key part of Finnair’s network. While new routes have not yet been confirmed, Vig noted that updates will be shared in due course.

For travellers planning European or Nordic itineraries, connections through Helsinki include Stockholm, Copenhagen, Oslo and Finnish destinations such as Rovaniemi and Ivalo. Vig pointed out that these routes align well with demand for experiences such as viewing the Northern Lights in Lapland, visiting Norway’s fjords or exploring Swedish café culture.

Long-haul comfort has become a priority for Indian leisure travellers and families, and Finnair has been refining its offering. Vig shared that recent cabin enhancements across Business, Premium Economy and Economy have appealed to customers seeking consistent comfort. Indian passengers also value the presence of Indian cabin crew. Onboard, menus take inspiration from Nordic regions, using seasonal flavours with a destination-driven focus. Helsinki Airport has also undergone a full transformation, designed to support efficient movement for transit passengers.

With global airfares fluctuating, travellers often look for ways to maximise value. Vig observed that off-peak and shoulder periods usually offer better fares. Finnair offers ticket types with optional add-ons, such as extra baggage, seat selection, or upgrades, giving travellers the flexibility to choose based on their requirements.

Environmental responsibility is another priority for today’s travellers. Vig explained that Finnair has set a Science-Based Targets initiative-validated climate target for 2033, aligned with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C pathway. The airline has doubled its Sustainable Aviation Fuel usage since the previous year and aims for one point eight per cent of total fuel consumption through SAF in 2024. Per-passenger waste has been reduced to 213 grams, with circularity initiatives underway. Vig also highlighted Finnair’s involvement in Liquid Sun’s eSAF pilot project, developed with ABB, Fortum and Finavia, aimed at producing synthetic fuel from biogenic CO₂.

The Nordics continue to attract Indian travellers seeking lesser-known destinations. Vig pointed towards Reykjavik for geothermal sites, Denmark for its design-driven culture, Kittilä for access to Arctic landscapes and Norway’s Lofoten Islands for scenery that feels untouched. He noted that these destinations offer a different side of the region beyond Finland.

Younger travellers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are shaping airline expectations. According to Vig, this segment values authenticity, design and sustainability. Finnair’s response includes cabin interiors with Nordic influences, stronger digital touchpoints, in-flight Wi-Fi and entertainment options, and operational measures to improve fuel efficiency.

The onboard experience continues to evolve. The airline’s “Nordic Kitchen” concept features seasonal menus. Depending on the route, dishes may include roasted teriyaki scampi with pickled cucumber, smoked celeriac purée, vegetables and roasted potatoes, or Japanese-style chicken with soy sauce, shiitake mushrooms and steamed rice. Business Class passengers experience the Nordic-designed Air Lounge seat along with updated entertainment systems, and Wi-Fi is available on many aircraft.

Security and comfort remain priorities for solo and female travellers from India. Vig shared that predictable operations, supported by trained crews and the simple layout of Helsinki Airport, help make the journey smoother for first-time solo flyers. “We see more solo and first-time travellers choosing us because Helsinki Airport is simple to navigate and feels easy from the moment they land,” he said.

For travellers planning their next European holiday, he recommended keeping schedules flexible and including time in Helsinki. He noted that a short stop can help travellers explore the design district, experience Finnish sauna culture or adjust to a new time zone before travelling onward. In his view, this small addition can make an entire trip more manageable and memorable.