by Sarah Donaghy

Created on: February 23, 2009

Finnair is Finland's largest airline. It serves multiple domestic and international destinations from its hub at Helsinki-Vantaa airport. In typical Finnish fashion, flying with Finnair is fast, efficient, and a refreshingly pleasant experience. This highly recommended airline is the best choice for long haul flights into and out of Northern Europe.

Beginning at check in, you are treated to Finnair's speed and efficiency. You can check in on line up to 36 hours in advance, skipping the queues at the airport all together. You can also check in by text message (if you are a member of Finnair Plus, Finnair's frequent flier programme), which adds a modern and decidedly Finnish touch to checking in. At the airport itself, Finnair has user-friendly self-service check in kiosks, as well as traditional check in desks.

Baggage allowances are generous, with Finnair one of the few remaining transatlantic airlines permitting passengers to check two bags of up to 50lbs each, giving you a whopping 100lbs in total. On flights to other European countries, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and South America, economy class nets you 44lbs and business class 70lbs of baggage allowance. If you need to bring more than this already massive allowance, Finnair's excess baggage pricing schedules are extremely reasonable.

Once you are through check in and have dropped off your bags, Finnair offers access to its comfortable departure lounges to members of the Finnair Plus frequent flier club with Silver level membership or above. There are light refreshments, business services, and comfortable seating. The lounges all tend to be quiet, and are a fantastic escape from the general chaos of the departure area. Before certain long haul flights, a complimentary buffet is offered- please see Finnair's website for more information.

Once on board, you will enjoy plenty of leg room and seats that are designed to comfortably accommodate a real human being- no more sardine-like economy class situations. Everyone receives a bottle of water at the beginning of the flight, and crew are on hand to distribute niceties like playing cards, ear plugs, eye masks, pain and nausea medication, and postcards and pens upon request. Business class travelers are also treated to an in flight amenities pack in a sturdy carry case- it makes a nice souvenir and has high reuse value. The crew also distribute toys to children on the flight.

Depending on the flight, different on board entertainment is offered. On most flights

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