How to get through the airport faster
Save yourself some time and follow our tips to get through the airport with less stress.
Check in in advance to save time
We recommend thinking ahead, starting from advance check-in that saves a lot of time and effort.
The easiest way to check-in is with the Finnair mobile app. When you use the app, not only can you store your boarding pass, but you get real-time updates and other services such as the option to upgrade to Business Class or to purchase your seat assignment. Of course, sitting in the front of the aircraft always gives you a head start after landing.
Some destinations still have coronavirus related requirements in place, and those certificates need to be checked before the flight. To many of these destinations you can pre-check your certificates using our digital tool as part of the online or mobile check-in.
In addition to advance check-in, making any reservation changes or purchasing tickets or travel extras in advance saves time at the airport. It is good to know that we no longer have a separate service point for these services at Helsinki Airport, but our crew at other desks can help, if needed. Also, we no longer accept cash payments at Finnair service points at the airport.
Pack light and tight
Another tip is to pack light and tight. The least amount of carry-on baggage, the better, as it will speed up the security process and get you seated on the aircraft quicker.
If you have checked baggage, we recommend using automated services wherever possible. For example at Helsinki Airport, you can collect your bag tag from a kiosk in the departure hall and use the self-service bag drop desk. If you have special or extra baggage, we recommend that you purchase them and inform the airline beforehand to make sure that the check-in is as convenient as possible.
Through the security smoothly
Winding your way through security control is indeed an art form. Some things are obvious, but you can make the process more pleasant (and quicker).
If you have a Finnair Business Flex or Classic ticket or you are a Finnair Plus Platinum, Gold, or Silver member, you can use the priority security Lane at many airports, including Helsinki Airport.
You can prepare for the security check already at home by checking what you can or can’t carry in the carry-on baggage. At Helsinki Airport’s new security control you don’t need to remove liquids and electronics from your bag. However, at many other airports it is still required.
After you pass through security control, take a look at the map of the Helsinki Airport on your Finnair app which will guide you to your departure gate. If your flight is departing from the non-Schengen area, you must go through passport control. It is important to check the travel document requirements for your journey well in advance – that obviously makes passing the check points at the airport smoother. Coronavirus related requirements have been lifted in many countries, but normal passport and possible visa requirements apply.
Arrive early
In general, we advise to arrive the airport minimum 2 hours before the flight, and for flights to the USA 3 hours before, to ensure a smooth start for the journey. Weekends and holiday seasons are typically busy, as are morning and afternoon hours.
Now after the pandemic, quickly increased travel and global labour shortages are causing busy times and congestion at many European airports, especially during the summer holiday season.
Our home hub Helsinki Airport is designed for smooth travelling, and customers have chosen it several times among the best airports in Europe. So, why not to take the opportunity to enjoy the hub’s services, like restaurants and shopping, or drop by the Finnair lounges. You can also purchase lounge access as a travel extra.