Finnair, the flag carrier of Finland, has warned of the cancelation of around 100 scheduled passenger flights due to an industrial action by the Finnish Aviation Union (IAU) at Helsinki Airport (HEL).
A four-hour strike is set to take place on May 5, 2025, with the Finnish Aviation Union (IAU) confirming that the industrial action will occur in shifts throughout the day. The strike will disrupt key services, including ground handling and cargo operations, affecting the travel plans of approximately 7,500 passengers. Due to the industrial action, Finnair has canceled approximately a hundred flights.
“We are very sorry about the ongoing changes to our customers’ travel plans due to these industrial actions,” Jaakko Schildt, Finnair’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), said in a company statement.
“Our team is working diligently to offer alternative solutions to affected customers,” the COO concluded.
Finnair ensured that passengers affected by cancellations would be notified and offered rebooking options. The airline also urged travelers to keep their contact information up to date to ensure timely communication. Given the expected volume of disruptions, the carrier recommended checking in early and preparing for possible delays in baggage handling.
Another strike is planned for May 16, with further operational disruptions likely. Finnair is currently assessing the potential impact on air traffic, but initial indications suggest that industrial action will again lead to flight cancellations and delays.