The long-awaited Finnair pilots agreement has finally been reached, bringing a wave of relief to both the airline and thousands of travelers as Finland steps into the busy summer travel season.
After months of stalled conversations and growing public pressure, the pilots’ union SLL successfully finalized a collective bargaining agreement with Palta, the employers’ association representing Finnair. The deal, concluded over the weekend, outlines terms covering three full years with the possibility of an optional fourth year. Final approval from both sides’ executive boards is still pending but expected soon.
What makes this moment significant is not just the resolution itself but the tone it sets. Recent months have tested the patience of the airline’s staff and passengers alike. And now, at last, a bit of stability returns to the cockpit.
“This is refreshing news for both Finnair and Finnish air passengers, especially as the summer holiday season is beginning,” said Pasi Vuorio, Palta’s lead negotiator, in a written statement.
Focus on Finnair pilots agreement and what it means
Finnair pilots have been operating without an active contract since October, and talks with Palta began as far back as August. After a drawn-out process, the airline’s Chief People Officer Kaisa Aalto-Luoto noted her satisfaction with the outcome, saying, “Finnair pilots are a group of top professionals vital for our hundred-year history.”
The terms of the deal align broadly with other recent labour contracts in Finland’s aviation and public sectors. The mood within both camps, while cautiously optimistic, reflects the exhaustion of months of tension finally released.
However, the air isn’t completely clear yet.
Ground services row still unresolved
While the pilots have reached an understanding, the airline’s ground services staff remain in dispute. That ongoing battle continues to disrupt travel plans and the operational routine at Finnair.
The IAU, the aviation union representing ground employees, has already staged multiple strikes, forcing Finnair to cancel dozens of flights. Talks for ground staff are scheduled to resume on Monday, but tensions remain high.
Further strike actions have already been announced by the IAU for June 11, 17, and 19, putting continued pressure on both the airline and mediation teams.
