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This December, Finnair will mark 40 years as the “Official Airline of Santa Claus.”
When Finnair launched its first direct flight from Helsinki to Tokyo via the North Pole in 1983—a route that is currently operational again after nearly 30 years—the flag carrier and the most well-known inhabitant of Finland began their cooperation.
The world’s most well-known gift-giver will travel this winter between seven Asian Finnair destinations—Shanghai, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Osaka, Seoul, Singapore, and Delhi—from his residence in Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland, thanks to a partnership between Finnair and The Santa Claus Foundation.
Every year, Santa makes his way to hospitals, preschools, kindergartens, and local kids’ homes in many nations, bringing gifts and holiday cheer.
Anssi Partanen, Finnair Market Director Europe, said: “Finnair’spartnership with Santa Claus reminds us that the true magic of Christmas is in giving and ensuring every child gets to experience the warmth and wonder of the festive season.
“For forty years Finnair has helped make dreams come true for children around the world and we look forward to touching the hearts of countless more children and adults who still embrace the magic of Christmas.”
Jari Ahjoharju, Santa Foundation CEO, said: “The excitement is palpable when Santa touches down. People of all ages eagerly gather to seize a cherished photo opportunity with the authentic Finnish Santa Claus recognised by his bushy long beard and timeless, friendly and kind looking essence.
“Each Christmas, it fills us with pride to remind the world that Santa hails from the enchanting land of Finland. Spreading that message is a cherished part of our mission. Equally significant is the charity work we undertake with children.”
Through the Santa Claus Foundation, a charitable partner of the airline, the airline still helps Santa in his mission to spread Christmas pleasure today. Claus’ charity was founded in 2000 with the goal of enhancing children’s wellbeing everywhere.
The Finnish airline gladly takes Santa Claus from his abode in the Arctic Circle to several global locations every Christmas, such as China, Singapore, and Japan, allowing people all around the world to experience the wonder of Christmas at home.
Year-round flights are available to a number of airports in the center of Lapland, including Rovaniemi, The Official Hometown of Santa Claus, for anyone hoping to visit the region and meet the big guy.
Return tickets from London to Lapland for an Arctic experience start from £244 in Economy Class and £661 in Business Class, including all taxes and fees.
All services have been carefully scheduled to provide seamless transfers in Helsinki starting in as little as 35 minutes, with easy connections from the UK and Ireland.
