Finnair CEO Desires Quick Resolution with Pilots’ Union, Impact on Japan Routes Possible

Finnair CEO, Tuurakka Kuusisto, has expressed a desire to resolve as soon as possible the ongoing labor negotiations with the Finnish Air Line Pilots’ Association (FALPA), to which the company’s pilots belong. While efforts are being made to minimize operational impacts, fully eliminating them “is unfortunately difficult,” according to Kuusisto.

A deadlock in negotiations since last August led FALPA to initiate a strike in December, having rejected a mediation settlement. The association also halted standby duties of its member pilots from December 12.

During the strike, approximately 300 flights were canceled from December 9 to 12, impacting around 33,000 individuals. Although standby duty was temporarily resumed for the Christmas holiday season, it was halted again from January 6, potentially affecting operations if pilots were to call in sick.

Concerning the future of labor negotiations, CEO Kuusisto emphasized that “There is a Nordic way of proceeding, and the process is ongoing,” though he acknowledged no immediate prospect for an agreement. However, he confirmed an ongoing effort towards a phased agreement.

The December strike also affected routes to Japan, canceling two round trips of Tokyo/Haneda to Helsinki flights. While ongoing operational impacts are a concern, Kuusisto articulated that “the importance and strategy concerning the Japanese market remain unchanged,” signaling no long-term strategic impact.