A historic change at Helsinki Airport

Credit: Helsinki Airport (HEL)

Starting 21 June 2022, airport company Finavia will centralise the check-in, security controls, and baggage claims in a single terminal at Helsinki Airport (HEL).

“We are turning over a new leaf in the history of Helsinki Airport, as departing and returning passengers will henceforth be served in our new, magnificent terminal. Passengers will no longer need to think about which terminal they will depart from or arrive at,” commented Ulla Lettijeff, Finavia’s Helsinki Airport Director. 

With a single terminal, getting around the airport is easier. It also makes life easier for those who meet or escort passengers. The services are concentrated under one roof, making them more accessible than before.

It is now possible for cars and taxis to drive directly in front of the main doors to drop off passengers. There is lift access from the train station and the new parking garage P1/P2 to the terminal. The other car parks and the short-term parking for people receiving passengers are also just a few minutes’ walk from the main doors of the terminal. The bus station and the bike parking area are also right in front of the entrance doors to the terminal.

Terminals 1 and 2 and the corridor connecting them will be taken out of use. The old departure and arrivals halls will be closed and converted into passenger and staff areas.

“The last time Helsinki Airport operated in one terminal was almost 30 years ago. At that time, the terminal in use was the first actual passenger terminal that opened in 1969 and was later expanded in 1983,” added Lettijeff.

In 1993, international and domestic flight traffic were separated and a new terminal for domestic flights was opened at Helsinki Airport. Approximately 15 years later, an airline-specific terminal division was implemented and Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 were introduced. Helsinki Airport was originally opened for the Helsinki Olympics, 70 years ago.

More services than before

During the spring and early summer, a number of new services have been launched at Helsinki Airport, including a 24/7 Alepa, the beloved Moomin Shop, and the Plaza Premium Lounge, which offers lounge, meeting, hairdressing and beauty services.

An interesting restaurant world has also recently been opened, where Lopez y Lopez, Pretty Boy Wingery, Levant, Bär Bar and Richie’s Gourmet Hot Dogs serve flavours from around the world.

The Balmuir and Marimekko shops, which are located in the gate area immediately after the security control, are also new.

“Our nearly 10-year development programme is nearing completion. Work at Helsinki Airport will be finished next year, when a new baggage claim hall will be put into service. Construction sites can still be seen throughout the terminal, as a few new points of service are under construction,” said Lettijeff.