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Finnair is set to expand its long-haul network with the introduction of new flights to Melbourne Airport (MEL). This marks the airline’s first-ever service to Australia. What’s even cooler about the route is that it includes a stop at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) with flights from there to Melbourne Airport (MEL) bookable alone as a cool, fifth freedom route. Beginning October 25th, Finnair will offer daily service on this long route.
The new route creates a direct connection between Australia and Finnair’s extensive European and Asian network through its Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) hub. The schedule is designed for efficient aircraft usage and easy connections. Flights will leave Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) shortly after midnight, arrive in Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in the afternoon, and continue to Melbourne Airport (MEL) after a brief stop (reaching the Australian city the next morning). Return flights will depart in the afternoon, stop in Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) in the evening, and arrive in Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) early the following day (to allow for smooth transfers to Finnair’s morning departures across Europe).
Finnair will operate the route with Airbus A350-900 aircraft that offer 43 Business Class, 24 Premium Economy, and 211 Economy Class seats. Melbourne is my favorite city in Australia. It’s regarded as the cultural capital, has a great arts scene, iconic sporting events (including the Australian Open), and feels like a mix of Europe and Brooklyn.
With this addition, Finnair’s 2026 network will include 93 destinations in Europe, 11 in Asia, seven in North America, and two in the Middle East.
Christine Rovelli, Chief Revenue Officer at Finnair, said:
We are very excited to introduce service to a new continent. By connecting Helsinki and Melbourne, two cities on opposite sides of the world, we can offer a truly unique bridge between the northern and southern hemispheres. We expect that this new route will appeal to travelers from Europe heading to Australia, as well as Australians exploring northern Europe and beyond.”
Anthony’s Take: I always find fifth freedom routes cool and this one is no exception. This is a fun addition to Finnair’s map and I hope it works well for the Finnish airline.
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