Finnair, Finland’s flag carrier, marks a significant milestone this weekend, celebrating 30 years of connecting Helsinki to Osaka.
Since launching the route on 19 April 1995, Finnair has solidified its role as a key player in linking Europe and Asia.
By pioneering the “short northern route,” the airline brought the vibrant Japanese city of Osaka closer to Europe, fostering cultural and economic ties.
First Operations in 1995
When Finnair first introduced flights to Osaka, it operated twice-weekly services using its McDonnell Douglas wide-body aircraft.
Over the years, growing demand for travel to Asia transformed this route into a daily operation. This expansion reflects Osaka’s rising popularity as a destination for business and leisure travelers alike.
In 1995, to honor the new route and strengthen ties with Japan, Finnair adorned its aircraft with special “Moomin” decals.
This gesture celebrated the airline’s partnership with the beloved Finnish Moomin brand, a household name in Japan.
The Moomins symbolized the deep connection between Finland and Japan, delighting passengers and showcasing shared cultural appreciation.
First Presence in Japan
Finnair’s journey in Japan began even earlier, with its first flight to Tokyo-Narita on April 22, 1983. At the time, Finnair was the only airline offering direct flights between Western Europe and Japan.
In the following decade, the airline expanded its Asian network, adding Osaka and other Japanese cities to its destinations.
Summer Increase in Osaka Services
This summer, Finnair makes traveling to Osaka easier than ever. The airline will increase its Osaka flights to daily services, up from five weekly flights last year.
This boost aligns neatly with Osaka’s preparations to host World Expo 2025, a global event expected to draw millions of visitors. Finnair’s enhanced schedule will support Osaka’s growing prominence on the world stage.
Finnair proudly holds the title of Europe’s largest airline serving Japan, operating 25 weekly flights from Helsinki to Tokyo-Haneda, Tokyo-Narita, Osaka, and Nagoya.
This extensive network underscores the airline’s unwavering commitment to the Japanese market.
Anssi Partanen, Finnair’s Market Director for Europe, spoke on the occasion. “We’re thrilled to celebrate 30 years of flying to Osaka.”
“This milestone highlights Finnair’s dedication to the city and Japan as a whole. With daily flights to Osaka this summer, we’re excited to support travelers visiting for World Expo 2025 and beyond.”
UK Connections to Osaka
For UK travelers, Finnair offers seamless connections to Osaka via Helsinki. Flights start at £865 in Economy, £1,729 in Premium Economy, and £3,734 in Business Class, including taxes and fees.
Finnair’s UK departure cities—London Heathrow, Manchester, and Edinburgh—benefit from carefully timed schedules.
Passengers enjoy smooth transfers at Helsinki, with connection times as short as 40 minutes, as all flights operate from the same terminal.
Finnair’s 30-year legacy in Osaka reflects its commitment to innovation, connectivity, and cultural exchange.
As the airline expands its services, travelers can look forward to exploring Osaka’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, from its historic castles to its bustling food scene, all made accessible through Finnair’s reliable and convenient flights.
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