ROUTES EUROPE: American Airlines Launches Helsinki Link From Chicago

American Airlines inaugurated flights between Chicago and Helsinki on May 2. The new seasonal link is being operated under a codeshare relationship with Finnair, with both carriers members of the oneworld global alliance.

Customers departing on the first flight were greeted at the gate with a special cake and Chicago-themed catering, including hot dogs, bagels and mini pizzas. They were also serenaded by a local jazz trio and treated to a glass of sparkling wine, so they could toast the new flight in style. A ribbon-cutting ceremony officially launched proceedings before passengers were given a special commemorative gift as they boarded.

Paavo Virkkunen, Vice President Alliances & Commercial Partnerships, Finnair, described the service as a new strategic opening to complement the concept of connecting continents via Helsinki. “This new service doubles the alliance’s direct services between Helsinki and the United States and provides a significant amount of improved connections for our mutual customers,” he said.

Juha-Pekka Pystynen, Airport Director SVP, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport, emphasised the great value of the new flight to both Helsinki and Finland more widely. “A non-stop service between Helsinki and Chicago has been high on our wish list in recent years,” he said. “The new service gives excellent connections on both sides of the Atlantic and also strengthens Helsinki Airport’s position as the leading long-haul airport in Northern Europe and as a popular intercontinental transfer hub.”