Finnair increases capacity at Manchester Airport with larger Airbus planes

Scandinavian carrier Finnair has announced plans to ramp up capacity at Manchester Airport this winter.

The airline will add over 2,700 seats to its services between Manchester and Helsinki during the busy Christmas period, a boost of 12%.

Finnair said that from December, certain flights operated by Embraer aircraft will instead be flown on larger capacity Airbus A319 and A320 planes.

Services are timed to offer connections to five Lapland airports from Helsinki Vantaa Airport.

The commercial director of Manchester Airport, Stephen Turner, said: “It is pleasing to see Finnair increase capacity on its route to Helsinki from Manchester Airport.

“This growth is a clear response to passenger demand to fly from the UK’s global gateway in the North.”

He added: “I am sure the 22m passengers in our catchment area will be happy with this news as they look to access Finland, and the excellent onward connectivity provided by Finnair.”

Andrew Fish, Finnair’s general Manager for the UK, Ireland and Benelux, commented: “There is increased interest towards Finland and especially Lapland as tourist destinations, and we are pleased to be able to offer even more capacity between Manchester and Lapland via Helsinki in response to passenger demand.

“During the winter schedule this extra capacity will also benefit passengers wishing to book flights between Manchester and Asia via Helsinki, taking advantage of our short connection times and award winning Nordic on board service.”

Finnair currently operates a twice daily service between the North West and Helsinki, departing Manchester at 10.15am and 5.50pm.