Finnair’s Airbus A330 aircraft / Credit: Finnair
After more than ten years, Finnair is set to resume direct flights between Helsinki and Toronto. This is more than just a new route; it marks an important milestone in the airline’s history across the Atlantic. The Helsinki-Toronto connection has been central to Finnair’s strategy in North America, and its return reinforces their commitment to the transatlantic market.
Direct flights from Helsinki to Toronto
Finnair will resume its direct flights between Helsinki Airport and Toronto Pearson International Airport on May 4, 2026. This marks an 11-year return to the Canadian market since its last flight in 2015.
Flights will operate three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays—from May 4 to August 29, 2026. The schedule is as follows:
- AY031 departs Helsinki (HEL) at 4:50 pm and arrives at Toronto Pearson (YYZ) at 6:35 pm.
- AY032 departs Toronto Pearson (YYZ) at 11:40 pm and arrives in Helsinki (HEL) at 2:45 pm the following day.
Westbound from Helsinki, the flight time is 8 hours and 45 minutes, while eastbound from Toronto, it is 8 hours and 5 minutes.
Finnair will operate the Airbus A330-300 on this route, offering Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins.
Helsinki International Airport / Credit: Finnair – Markus Kontianen
Finnair’s Strategic North American Expansion
This move is part of Finnair’s broader transatlantic expansion. The airline is shifting its attention toward North America after disruptions to its Asia-focused network. By 2026, Finnair plans to offer flights to Helsinki from seven North American gateways: Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Seattle, and Toronto. Passengers travelling from these cities will benefit from convenient connections through its Helsinki hub to numerous destinations across Europe, particularly in the Nordic and Baltic regions.
“We are excited to grow our North American network and bring Canada back as a destination. Toronto is a popular travel destination and offers especially our European customers great connections also to other parts of Canada,” said Christine Rovelli, Finnair’s Chief Revenue Officer.
Significance of the Helsinki-Toronto Route
Finnair’s resumption of the Helsinki-Toronto route is notable as the only direct flight between Finland and Canada. This connection makes travel to Canada easier for Europeans and provides convenient access to other Canadian destinations. The restored service signals renewed confidence in global travel and underscores the importance of links between Northern Europe and North America.
Economic Impact on Finland and Canada
The route re-opening will boost trade and tourism between Finland and Canada, benefiting both economies. It will attract more Canadian visitors to Finland and drive business for Toronto’s hospitality and attractions. This direct link strengthens cultural and business ties and positions Toronto as a key North American hub for travel between both continents.
Strengthening Business Connections
Finnair’s new direct flight to Toronto strengthens business links between Northern Europe and North America, making Canada’s main business hub more accessible for European companies. The Toronto-Helsinki route supports transatlantic partnerships and offers business travellers a comfortable Business Class experience on the A330 aircraft.
Broader Trends in the Aviation Industry
Finnair’s new long-haul route reflects renewed confidence in transatlantic travel and increases competition, which could benefit travellers. Both Finnair and Air Transat are responding to growing demand between Canada and Europe, focusing on key cities like Toronto, Berlin, and Helsinki. Strategic alliances, such as those within Star Alliance, are also boosting Canada’s appeal as a top destination.
The CN Tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere and a defining feature of Toronto’s skyline
Toronto: A Cultural and Economic Hub
Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a key hub for travel and business, serving as the country’s commercial and financial centre. With Finnair resuming flights, local tourism is expected to benefit, providing a boost to hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Toronto attracts millions of visitors each year with its diverse urban experiences, proximity to Niagara Falls, and vibrant cultural scene featuring festivals, galleries, theatres, and music venues. Its multicultural atmosphere and strategic location make it a top destination for international travelers.
Rise in North American Travel Demand
Finnair is set to resume flights to Toronto in 2026 after an 11-year hiatus, highlighting the rising demand for travel to North American destinations. Interest in travel between Europe and Canada is increasing, driven by both leisure and business needs. By 2025, transatlantic routes are expected to see a significant jump in capacity, with projections reaching 33.1 million one-way seats. Europeans are increasingly viewing Canada as a prime destination, influenced by various political and economic factors that favour Canada over the U.S. Finnair’s expansion, including its new Toronto route, aligns with this trend and reflects Canada’s growing appeal to European travellers.
Finnair’s new flights are available for booking. For detailed information on routes and schedules, check the GDS or contact Finnair.
