Finnair release new schedule for the ‘Midnight Sun’ this summer

Credit: Finnair

Operator Finnair is relaunching its route to Bodø, Norway, after last summer’s successful launch, so customers can experience the ‘Midnight Sun’ phenomenon. 

The new route is the only international flight from Helsinki city, a sign of Finnair’s reinforcement of their Nordic network.

Between now and 12 August 2024, flights to the mini metropolis will operate five times a week, an increase from the three weekly flights which were offered last summer. This is to coincide with the ethereal Midnight Sun.

Known for being one of Norway’s fastest growing cities, Bodø is located in the Arctic Circle and offers the ultimate combination of beauty and nature.

From the world’s strongest maelstrom, Saltstraumen, and Europe’s most accessible glacier, Svartisen, to the natural phenomenon of the midnight sun in which the sun never sets, travellers can experience spectacular nature without standing in line.

Customers looking for a cool cultural experience are also in luck, with the city being named a European Capital of Culture in 2024. Being the first of its kind north of the Arctic Circle, the city will host more than 1000 performances, concerts and art exhibitions throughout its celebratory year.

Finnair’s route aims to offer UK travellers bound for Norway an easy one-stop option via the airline’s home hub in Helsinki, with flights having been timed to allow short and seamless connections.

Those looking to book a break in Bodø, can enjoy return fares from London starting at £343 in Economy, including taxes and charges.

Anssi Partanen, Finnair Market Director Europe, said: “With demand for travel to the Nordics continuing to rise, we are excited to be relaunching our direct flights between Helsinki and Bodø, Norway.

“Located above the Arctic Circle, Bodø is a magical destination brimming with beauty, offering unique experiences to travellers from around the world.

“As the only airline to offer scheduled international flights to the city, we know our summer service will prove popular with customers looking to experience the Midnight Sun.”

Julie Abelsen, Visit Bodø Marketing Manager, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Finnair’s relaunch of direct flights from Helsinki to Bodø. This route provides a unique opportunity for international travellers to experience our diverse cultural offerings and breathtaking Arctic nature. 

“2024 is surely the year to visit Bodø as we celebrate being European Capital of Culture this year, and Finnair is helping us connect to the rest of the world. The doors of our region, and our hearts, are wide open!”

Alongside its direct flight to Bodø, Finnair also offers services to the Norwegian gateways of Oslo, Bergen, Tromsø, Trondheim, and from 2025, Finnair’s most northerly destination, Kirkenes.

This gives UK customers the opportunity to mix-and-match their departure and arrival airports, so to allow for road trips, train travel and twin-centre trips across Norway.

Customers can choose from Finnair’s 14 destinations in Finland and over 25 destinations in the wider Nordic region.

All services have been specifically timed to allow for easy connections from top UK airports, London Heathrow, Manchester, Edinburgh and the Irish capital Dublin.

Finnair offers smooth and easy transfers between flights from as little as 35 minutes, thanks to all flights operating from the same terminal.

For more information on Finnair’s routes and schedules, visit finnair.com.