Finnair Business Class

Finnair is Finland’s flag carrier and a Oneworld alliance member, operating from Helsinki Vantaa Airport. The airline’s geographic position makes Helsinki the shortest routing point between Europe and Northeast Asia, enabling Finnair to compete on Asia-bound traffic despite its smaller size. In 2022, Finnair introduced the AirLounge, a distinctive business class concept designed by Finnish design house PearsonLloyd that replaced traditional business class seats on its refurbished A350-900 fleet.

Seat and cabin

The AirLounge on the A350-900 features a 1-2-1 layout with a wide, contoured shell that creates a nest-like space. The seat is 21 inches wide and converts to a lie-flat bed at 78 inches with a fixed-back design and separate ottoman. The concept is polarising — it lacks the traditional recline mechanism and instead uses a sculptured cushion that allows multiple lounging positions. Some passengers find it extremely comfortable, while others miss a conventional lie-flat seat. The A330-300 retains a more traditional staggered lie-flat business class seat. All seats include 18-inch touchscreens, Bluetooth audio, and USB-C charging.

Dining and service

Finnair’s menu showcases Nordic cuisine with seasonal Finnish ingredients. Expect dishes like reindeer, salmon, lingonberry, and Nordic root vegetables alongside international options. Finnish Fazer chocolates are served after meals. The wine list features selections chosen by Finnair’s wine advisory team. Service is efficient and friendly in a typically understated Nordic manner, with less formality than Asian carriers but consistent warmth.

Lounge access

The Finnair Premium Lounge at Helsinki Vantaa offers Finnish-designed interiors, sauna facilities (a uniquely Finnish touch), shower rooms, hot Nordic dishes, a cocktail bar, and relaxation areas. Business class and Oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members have access. At outstations, Finnair uses Oneworld partner lounges. The HEL lounge sauna is a distinctive feature not found at any other airline lounge.

FAQ

Is Finnair business class worth it?

Finnair offers strong value for Europe-to-Asia routing, often with shorter total travel times via Helsinki compared to Gulf or European hub connections. The AirLounge is a divisive product — try it if you value unique design, but opt for the A330 if you prefer a traditional lie-flat seat.

Does Finnair have lie-flat seats?

Yes. Both the AirLounge on the A350 and the traditional business class seat on the A330-300 convert to fully lie-flat beds. The AirLounge achieves this differently, using a contoured cushion rather than a mechanical recline.

What is Finnair AirLounge like?

The AirLounge is a wide, shell-shaped seat in a 1-2-1 layout with a fixed back and ottoman that creates a lie-flat bed. It includes an 18-inch screen, Bluetooth audio, USB-C charging, and Nordic-designed bedding. The concept prioritises a lounge-like feel over a conventional airline seat.