We Flew Finnair Airbus A330 from New York to Milan:
Finnair New York to Helsinki sector
This is our first time flying Finnair and it was quite a pleasant experience, especially since we indulged ourselves by flying business class. Our flight took us from New York to Helsinki, Finnair’s home base, and then on to Milan.
The New York to Helsinki sector was on their Airbus A330, which unfortunately is not their latest plane. Notwithstanding that, it was a comfortable flight and the air stewardesses were very friendly and provided great service.
The Helsinki to Milan sector was disappointing as they didn’t have business class seats on this flight. Instead, they kept the centre economy seat free so you had more space.
Food and Drinks
Dennis Bunnik, Managing Director of Bunnik Tours, raved about the Arctic Blue gin and tonic on Finnair flights and so Tony tried it. The gin was nicely prepared, not too strong, and it had lots of blueberries in it.
Finnair Arctic Blue Gin & Tonic
Dinner:
We decided to take potluck and didn’t pre-order our meals. For pescatarians like us, we had dinner starter choice of:
- Beetroot marinated Balik salmon with cauliflower purée
- Roasted root vegetable salad with chicories in a creamy vinaigrette.
Our main course was a very tasty grilled halibut with white wine sauce and basmati rice, followed by cheese and ice cream.
Finnair Fish Dinner
Both starters and the main dish were very tasty. We are always doubtful about having seafood on flights, but in business class it was nicely done.
Breakfast:
Our substantial breakfast consisted of cold smoked salmon, cheddar, camembert and cream cheese.
Finnair business class breakfast
The stewardesses plied us with espresso coffee and for that we loved them.
Finnair Amenities
Finnair proudly boasts of using Marimekko designed amenities – a Finnish design house – but the designs don’t grab me. In a funny way, the patch design reminds me of cowhide.
The cabin crew were a little embarrassed that Finnair don’t provide any pyjamas for their overnight flights, especially when Tony and I geared up in our Qantas PJs.
Finnair’s Marimekko design amenities
As someone who has never been able to get a proper sleep on economy flights, I must say that the flatbed in Finnair’s business class was very comfortable. I did get to sleep, as did most of the other passengers. The woman on my left slept right up to landing preparation time.
We have other Finnair flights on this trip and it would be interesting to see the consistency of their service. So far, Finnair business class is pretty good.
What about you? What do you think?
Thanks for such a comprehensive overview of Finnair. Food looked great. Will keep them in mind for future. Wonder what they’re economy is like?
Hi Cathy, food was good and overall experience was very good as well. I think you should treat yourself to a business class flight. Look out for the specials.