Finnair Cancels Flights as 1,700 Seat Covers Replaced on A321 Fleet

Finnair, the Helsinki-based airline, has announced a temporary suspension of operations for eight of its A321 aircraft to replace roughly 1,700 seat covers. The airline confirmed that this move led to the cancellation of nearly 70 flights since October 13, affecting approximately 11,000 travelers. Finnair stated that the decision was taken to ensure passenger safety, as the fire protection of the seat covers had not been properly verified after washing. The replacement seat covers are being sourced from multiple suppliers to maintain high safety standards.

The disruption caused by Finnair’s aircraft suspension has left thousands of passengers facing uncertainty. Finnair apologized to affected customers, emphasizing that passenger safety and the safe operation of flights remain the airline’s top priorities. Pekka Korhonen, SVP Technical Operations at Finnair, reiterated that the airline is committed to resolving the issue quickly while minimizing inconvenience. Although Finnair has leased two additional aircraft to reduce flight disruptions, cancellations may continue until the full A321 fleet is back in service.

Finnair explained that the seat replacement was necessary after safety checks revealed that washing the existing seat covers may have impacted their fire protection capabilities. The airline is taking rigorous steps to replace the 1,700 seat covers across the eight A321 aircraft. Finnair assured travelers that all affected passengers will be notified of changes to their flights and rebooking options. This proactive measure underscores Finnair’s commitment to safety and reliability, even though it temporarily disrupts operations.

Founded in 1923 as Aero, Finnair has a long history of connecting Europe, North America, and Asia. The airline’s first aircraft, a German-made Junkers F 13 seaplane, showcased innovation by using skis in winter and floats in summer. Today, Finnair continues to uphold a legacy of safety and service, ensuring that passenger protection remains paramount. The ongoing seat replacement project is a reflection of Finnair’s dedication to maintaining high standards across its fleet.

With the full A321 fleet expected to return to service by the end of the month, Finnair is working diligently to minimize flight cancellations and ensure passenger confidence. The airline’s commitment to operational safety, including thorough verification of seat cover fire protection, highlights the importance of rigorous maintenance procedures. Finnair remains focused on providing safe, reliable travel for all passengers while addressing this temporary challenge with transparency and accountability.

Finnair has urged passengers to stay updated through its website and customer service channels regarding flight schedules. By taking immediate action to replace the 1,700 seat covers, Finnair is prioritizing passenger safety while demonstrating responsibility and operational excellence. The airline’s careful approach ensures that the A321 fleet will meet all safety requirements before resuming full operations, reinforcing trust among travelers and industry stakeholders alike.