Finnair, the flag carrier of Finland, has established itself as a premium airline with modern cabins, exceptional service, and Nordic-inspired design. In recent years, the airline has redefined its business class experience, particularly with its innovative AirLounge seat, setting new standards for comfort and privacy on long-haul flights.
This comprehensive review explores Finnair business class review experience, including seating, in-flight dining, amenities, entertainment, service, and how it compares to competitors.
Finnair Business Class Cabin & Seating – A Game Changer?
The New AirLounge Seat – A First in the Industry
Finnair introduced the Collins Aerospace AirLounge seat, a non-reclining business class seat, designed to provide maximum personal space and flexibility.
Available on: Select Airbus A350 and A330 aircraft.
- Key Features:
Wider seat design, inspired by Scandinavian lounges.
Fully flat-bed conversion with a soft mattress pad.
Fixed-shell seat for maximum privacy.
1-2-1 configuration (all seats have direct aisle access).
Why It’s Special: Unlike traditional business class seats that recline, the AirLounge allows passengers to stretch, sit, or lie flat in different ways, offering a more flexible sleeping position.
Seat Comfort & Privacy: The seat’s high sides create a cocoon-like experience, providing better privacy than many other business class products. The center seats also have a privacy divider, making them ideal for solo travelers.
In-Flight Dining – A Nordic Culinary Journey
Finnair’s business class meals are inspired by Nordic cuisine with Japanese influences, offering seasonal and fresh ingredients.
What’s on the Menu?
- Starter: Nordic-inspired seafood or a Japanese appetizer.
Main Course: Choice of three meals, including a meat, seafood, and vegetarian option.
Dessert: Nordic cheeses, chocolates, and a sweet pastry.
Dining Presentation:
- Served on Iittala Kuulas tableware, designed by Harri Koskinen.
- Lighter and more sustainable than previous Finnair tableware.
Best Dish? The reindeer pâté and Karelian pie—a must-try for first-time flyers!
Finnair Business Class Beverages – Signature Nordic Drinks
Finnair offers a premium selection of drinks, including:
- Champagne: Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Grand Réserve
Signature Cocktail: Northern Blush (Gin, lingonberry, orange)
Unique Drink: Blueberry Juice—Finnair’s signature beverage
Tip: If you love cocktails, don’t miss the Nordic-inspired selections, crafted with local Finnish ingredients.
Amenities – What’s Included in Your Business Class Experience?
Finnair’s business class amenity kit is eco-friendly and stylish, featuring Marimekko designs.
- Amenity Kit Includes:
L:a Bruket skincare products (Swedish organic brand)
Marimekko sleep mask
Earplugs & toothbrush (made from sustainable materials)
Slippers (recycled plastic bottles)
Sustainability Focus: Finnair eliminated single-use plastics from its amenity kits, aligning with its eco-friendly approach.
Entertainment & Connectivity – Stay Entertained at 35,000 Feet
Finnair’s in-flight entertainment system is powered by Panasonic Avionics, offering a user-friendly interface and high-quality display.
- Entertainment Features:
18-inch HD touchscreen (on Airbus A350 & A330)
Hundreds of movies, TV shows, and audiobooks
Noise-canceling headphones provided - Wi-Fi & Connectivity:
Paid Wi-Fi packages available (not free, unlike Qatar Airways & Emirates).
USB-C, USB-A, and wireless charging at every seat.
Best Feature? The “Do Not Disturb” button, which lets you rest without interruptions from the crew.
Service & Crew – Finnish Hospitality at Its Best?
Finnair’s business class crew are known for their:
- Polite and efficient service.
Attentiveness without being intrusive.
Fluent in English, Finnish, and Swedish.
What Could Be Better? Some passengers report that the crew can sometimes feel less warm compared to airlines like Qatar Airways or Singapore Airlines.
How to Book Finnair Business Class for Less
Finnair business class can be pricey, but here are some ways to book at a discount:
Best Ways to Book with Miles
- American Airlines AAdvantage – Use miles to book Finnair business class (OneWorld partner).
Finnair Plus Miles – Best for upgrades & redemptions.
British Airways Avios – Redeem Avios for Finnair business class flights.
Business Class Sales & Discounts
Look for Finnair’s seasonal promotions on routes to Asia, Europe, and the U.S.
Finnair Business Class vs. Competitors – How Does It Compare?
| Airline | Business Class Seat | Best Feature |
| Finnair | AirLounge (Fixed-Shell) | Unique seat design & privacy |
| Qatar Airways | QSuites | Fully enclosed suite with a door |
| Emirates | Business Class A380 | Onboard bar & premium service |
| Lufthansa | Business Class 747-8 | Traditional but spacious layout |
| British Airways | Club Suites | Newly upgraded seats with doors |
Final Verdict: Finnair’s AirLounge seat is innovative, but some travelers may prefer a traditional reclining seat like Qatar Airways QSuites.
Conclusion
- Finnair business class is an excellent choice if you’re looking for:
A private and spacious seat with a unique lounge-style design.
Nordic-inspired meals with fresh ingredients and premium tableware.
An efficient and stylish travel experience with top-tier amenities.
Would you try Finnair business class? Let us know in the comments!
FAQs
1. Is the Finnair business class worth the price?
Yes! The spacious seat, Nordic cuisine, and private cabin experience make it a great option for long-haul travel.
2. Does Finnair business class have lounge access?
Yes! Passengers get access to Finnair’s premium lounges in Helsinki and partner lounges worldwide.
3. Can I upgrade to Finnair business class?
Yes! Finnair offers cash upgrades, points redemptions, and last-minute upgrade bids.
4. What’s the best seat in Finnair business class?
- Solo travelers: Choose a window seat for privacy.
Couples or friends: Pick center seats with a retractable divider.
5. Does Finnair business class include lounge access?
Yes! Business class passengers get access to Finnair’s lounges, including the Finnair Business Lounge and Platinum Wing at Helsinki Airport, as well as partner lounges worldwide.
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