Finnair has announced its plan to introduce daily flights connecting Helsinki and Melbourne via Bangkok starting October 2026. The service will be operated with Airbus A350 aircraft, featuring Finnair’s distinctive business class and AirLounge seats that transform into beds, along with Premium Economy and Economy classes. This route will enable passengers to travel from Melbourne to Bangkok and onwards to Europe through Helsinki, with approximately 90 destinations across the continent.
The inaugural flight, AY146, is scheduled to depart Melbourne every day at 3:40 pm, arriving in Bangkok at 8:50 pm, and then into Helsinki at 6:05 am the next day. The return flight, AY145, will leave Helsinki soon after midnight, stop in Bangkok at 4:30 pm, and arrive in Melbourne at 7:15 am the following morning. Finnair’s Vice President Pasi Kuusisto stated that this new route would provide a valuable new option for both business and leisure travelers, emphasizing Finnair’s extensive network across the Nordics and Baltics that facilitates connections to Europe and beyond.
“Melbourne is not only a popular holiday destination for Europeans but also home to a large European diaspora, foreign students, and expatriates—making this route an attractive choice for these customer segments,” said Kuusisto.
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus expressed enthusiasm about the route, noting Finnair’s status as one of the few European carriers flying directly to Australia with its own aircraft. She highlighted the economic benefits, including enhancements to tourism and local businesses, with Helsinki being recognized as one of Europe’s most innovative cities and Finland consistently ranked among the happiest countries globally. The new flights are expected to bring increased traffic and economic activity, estimated at $190 million daily in contribution to Victoria’s economy.
In summary, this development marks a significant step in Australia-Europe air connectivity, supported by Melbourne’s strategic importance as a hub and the modern Airbus A350 fleet that exemplifies Finnair’s commitment to quality and environmental efficiency.
