Finnair Re-routes Passengers as Pilots’ Strike Begins on Monday
Finnair has taken swift action to address the disruption caused by an upcoming pilots’ strike, set to begin on Monday, affecting a staggering 33,000 passengers. The strike is scheduled for Monday, December 9, and Friday, December 13, grounding Finnair flights on those days. However, flights operated by Nordic Regional Airlines (Norra), Finnair’s subsidiary for short-haul flights within Finland and Europe, will continue as scheduled.
Efficient Re-routing Efforts by Finnair
Despite the significant impact of the strike, Finnair has managed to re-route the majority of affected passengers within just one day of the strike announcement. According to Finnair’s Vice President of Operations Control, Jari Paajanen, nearly all 33,000 passengers have been successfully re-routed, with only around 330 passengers still awaiting alternative flights. Paajanen emphasized the company’s quick response to the cancellations, highlighting the challenge of addressing such a large-scale disruption.
Customer Support and Refunds
For passengers who have not yet been re-routed or are unable to find a suitable alternative flight, Finnair is offering refunds through its customer service channels. Customers who purchased tickets through travel agents can seek refunds directly from the agency. Paajanen acknowledged the inconvenience faced by a significant portion of Finnair’s customer base, underscoring the company’s commitment to addressing the situation and minimizing the impact on travelers.
Financial Implications for Finnair
Despite the successful re-routing efforts, Paajanen declined to speculate on the potential financial losses for Finnair resulting from the strikes. The company remains focused on ensuring passenger safety and minimizing disruptions during this challenging period. Finnair continues to work diligently to address the needs of affected passengers and provide support throughout the strike period.
