Finnair axes 143 flights in response to upcoming strike day at Helsinki Airport

Finland’s flag-carrier Finnair is cancelling 143 flights in response to upcoming planned strikes at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), in what could become a torrid week for the airline. 

Finnair announced on June 15, 2025, the Finnish Aviation Union (IAU) is proceeding with industrial action at Helsinki Airport, causing extensive disruptions to traffic on June 17, 2025. 

“The four-hour industrial actions target different work shifts and thus affect many functions essential also to Finnair’s flights throughout the day, such as ground handling operations and catering services,” a spokesperson for Finnair said.  

Flight cancellations are expected to affect around 6,500 Finnair flyers who will be offered alternative travel options to navigate through disruptions.  

Finnair is still assessing whether further strikes on June 19, 2025, by the IAU will proceed and what effects the industrial action will have on that day’s traffic. 

“It is likely that if it takes place, it will cause disruptions on that day as well,” the spokesperson said. 

Finnair previously said at the start of June that strikes on June 17 and 19, 2025, could be more significant than previous ones.  

Finnair will announce possible flight cancellations for June 19, 2025, on June 17, 2025. 

The airline said that along with cancellations, strikes may cause disruptions with baggage handling so customers travelling are being are encouraged to check-in in advance, arrive at the airport on time and pack essential items, such as medicines, in carry-on baggage.     

When Finnair customers are notified if their flight is cancelled, they will be offered new routes through the airline’s booking system.  Alternatively, customers can cancel their reservation and apply for a refund. 

“Finnair has previously allowed customers scheduled to travel on strike days to reschedule their flights, helping them avoid disruptions. Thousands of customers have taken advantage of this opportunity,” the spokesperson added. 

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