Finnair’s First New Airbus A340 joins Fleet

Finnair has taken delivery of its first new long-haul Airbus A340 aircraft. The modern and technically advanced A340s will be used on Finnair’s long distance flights between Asia and Europe. The aircraft seats 269 passengers. 

This Airbus A340 is the first to arrive of three A340s ordered by Finnair in December 2005. The second aircraft will arrive from Toulouse in mid-June. Finnair will replace its current Boeing MD-11 long-haul fleet with Airbus A340’s and A330s by the end of 2010.

“The acquisition plan is flexible for Finnair both in terms of aircraft numbers and types. We can optimise our fleet according to the growth of demand and ensure our growth in Asia with a competitive fleet,” said Finnair President and CEO Jukka Hienonen.

The new A340 will allow Finnair to meet the demands of its growing traffic and further develop its Asian destinations. At the same time, the smooth transition to the new generation Airbus A350XWB aircraft can be ensured.

“The renewal significantly improves our profitability and eco-efficiency. Flying a modern fleet is the best environmental work an airline can do,” Hienonen added.

The A340s take advantage of the newest technology designed for the new Airbus long-haul models. For instance the four CFM56-5C4 engines significantly decrease fuel consumption and thus emissions.

New technically superior solutions on the Finnair A340s significantly add to passenger comfort. Passengers can now freely choose from the extensive communications and entertainment selection of the aircraft.

“In Economy Class we now have new, ergonomically designed seats with adjustable head rests. In addition there is a new entertainment system in both Business and Economy Class. All seats are equipped with satellite phones, 20 films, numerous TV and audio channels and a 60 CD collection which allow you to compile your own play lists. Each seat also has a power outlet to make working on your personal computer easier and USB outlets have also been installed for music players. In Business Class the new generation Recaro lie-flat seats ensure peaceful rest in roomy surroundings,” explained Product Manager Markku Remes from Finnair.

Finnair customers can send text messages and short emails for the first time during flight from the air to the ground. Passengers can call other  passengers on board the same flight with the satellite phones installed in the arm rests. Messages sent from the aircraft can also be answered from the ground.

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