Finnair continues role as official airline for Santa Claus

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Finnair continues role as official airline for Santa Claus

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By Sky Industry News

Nov 30, 2024

Finnair, Finland's national airline, has been the official carrier of Santa Claus since its inaugural flight over the North Pole in 1983. The journey from Helsinki to Tokyo marked the beginning of a long-standing partnership that continues to this day.

Santa Claus is said to reside above the Arctic Circle in Finland's Lapland, near Korvatunturi Fell. This location is part of the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, home to the Sámi-speaking Indigenous peoples of Northern Europe.

At the core of Finnair's collaboration with Santa Claus is its involvement with the Santa Claus Foundation. This charitable organization aims to enhance children's well-being worldwide and promote Finland as Santa's homeland. This year, Finnair will fly Santa Claus to various destinations across Asia for visits to local schools and hospitals.

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Jari Ahjoharju from the Santa Foundation stated: "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, recognized by his bushy long beard and timeless, friendly, and kind-looking essence."

In addition to its flights with Santa, Finnair offers festive meals on its long-haul routes during the holiday season. Passengers can enjoy dishes such as rainbow trout gravlax and roasted cod alongside mulled wine and gingerbread cookies.

For those planning a winter vacation in Lapland, Finnair provides up to 63 weekly flights between Helsinki and Rovaniemi during peak season. Visitors can explore activities like reindeer sleigh rides and craft workshops at the Santa Claus Village or witness the Northern Lights in popular spots like Ivalo and Saariselkä.