Far behind are the days when Helsinki was just a distant Northern spot. Now, being one of the tourist industry’s new sweethearts, it will soon be even more connected to the rest of the world as Japan Airlines (JAL) launches a new non-stop route between Tokyo and Helsinki. For Japanese travellers, Helsinki offers the closest gateway to many European cities and shortest transfer time in a modern, well-functioning terminal. It also makes Asian destinations easier to reach while enhancing Helsinki’s position as a leading transfer airport in Northern Europe.
Strategically situated European gateway
As a member of the oneworld® alliance and with its international network reaching more than 220 airports in 40 countries, Japan Airlines is a big co-partner for Finnair. This co-operation will tighten next year as the non-stop Boeing 787 Dreamliner route between Tokyo and Helsinki will be launched on February 25th, 2013 – earlier than initially announced. This brand new, state-of-the-art, medium-sized 186-seater aircraft is very fuel-efficient and thus ideal for markets such as Helsinki.
– We are confident this new route will benefit our customers in both regions, and that 787 Dreamliner is an ideal aircraft enabling us to serve this market profitably, says Mr. Atsuyuki Agawa, Japan Airlines’s Director of General Affairs for Finland and Northern Europe.
– With just 35 minutes of connecting time, our customers will enjoy a stress-free transit. Committed to supreme flight safety and service quality, we also expect to bring enhanced onboard-comfort, Agawa continues.
Time is precious, especially for those travelling for work. Flying between Japan and Europe via Helsinki is significantly faster. After the launch there will be direct Narita-Helsinki-Narita flights four times a week, and daily service is already planned. JAL also has an extensive network in fast-growing Asia, which can serve to connect business travellers to and from Finland.
Highly international partner
JAL’s new investment will contribute to the accessibility, global value and international image of Helsinki. The airline will promote not just this new route but Helsinki as a destination to the wide customer base in Japan, and thereby boost Helsinki’s tourism.
– Helsinki’s geographical location is advantageous as a connection hub. Our new service will surely strengthen the exchange of cultures and economics between our countries and support the flow of people and goods. For instance, Finnish design brands such as Marimekko and Iittala are gaining popularity in Japan. Japanese people are eager to learn about Finland, which is known for its excellent welfare and world-class educational standards. Finnish people are also very reliable, as we have learnt from working with Finavia, smiles Agawa and concludes:
– We are already offering special fares to celebrate this new route! These fares encourage travellers to also explore Oulu, Rovaniemi, Ivalo and Kittilä, and enjoy the spectacular aurora borealis – one of the major natural attractions of Finland.
