Finnish Winter Weather and Its Impact on Air Travel

The winter season at Finavia’s airports has officially begun, with preparations already set in motion during the summer. To minimize the impact of harsh weather on air traffic, the airport community works closely together to ensure safe and efficient travel.

Impact of Winter Weather on Air Traffic

Winter conditions significantly affect airport operations, slowing down many processes to maintain safety in challenging weather. In particular, the first proper winter conditions at Helsinki Airport are expected to arrive by mid-November, and operations will continue through March. At Lapland airports, winter conditions can persist well into spring.

Runway Clearing and Delays

Finavia is responsible for clearing runways during snowfalls, sometimes requiring a runway to be cleared twice within an hour. While a runway is being cleared, it cannot be used for air traffic, causing delays as planes wait their turn. Though runway closures due to weather are rare in Finland, they may occur if freezing drizzle makes surfaces too slippery to ensure safe takeoffs and landings.

Restrictions Due to Strong Winds and De-Icing

In addition to snow, strong winds can also lead to air traffic restrictions, which may cause further delays. Aircraft must undergo de-icing before departure during winter months, adding more time to the preparation process. Additionally, snow can slow baggage handling, as transporting baggage from the aircraft to the terminal becomes more difficult in snowy conditions.

Ensuring Safety in All Conditions

Despite the challenges of snowstorms, gusty winds, and freezing weather, Finavia’s priority remains ensuring the safety of passengers and airport staff. While delays are common during winter months, Finavia and the airport community work tirelessly to provide the best possible travel experience in even the most difficult conditions.