Finnair has announced it will cancel approximately 143 flights on Tuesday 17 June due to a four-hour strike by the Finnish Aviation Union (IAU) at Helsinki Airport, the airline’s main hub.
The industrial action, which targets several work shifts throughout the day, is expected to cause extensive disruption across core services including ground handling and catering.
The cancellations will affect an estimated 6,500 passengers. Finnair said it is in the process of rebooking affected customers onto alternative flights and contacting them directly. Travellers can also manage their new itineraries or apply for a refund via Finnair’s online booking service or mobile app.
The IAU’s industrial action will hit flight operations across the day, not just during the four-hour walkout, as staggered shift disruptions will have knock-on effects across airport logistics. Baggage handling is also expected to be affected, prompting Finnair to advise travellers flying on Tuesday to check in early, allow extra time at the airport, and pack essential items such as medication in their carry-on luggage.
The airline has already seen a sharp rise in customer service queries, resulting in longer than normal wait times. Finnair had earlier offered customers travelling on strike-affected days the option to reschedule flights without penalty, and reports that thousands took up the offer.
Passengers due to fly on Thursday 19 June could also face disruption, as the IAU has announced a similar round of industrial action for that day. Finnair is currently assessing the potential impact on Thursday’s schedule and says it will issue an update and confirm any further cancellations on Tuesday 17 June.
The airline is urging customers to monitor the status of their flights and remain informed through its online platforms and app.