Finnair is showcasing Finnish culture and culinary heritage with a new series of in-flight meals to mark Finland’s 100th year of independence.
The airline collaborated with the ELO Foundation, a non-profit organization that promotes Finnish culture, to create menus emphasizing “healthy and hearty food.” The dishes draw on traditional flavors and regional ingredients to give passengers a genuine taste of Finland.
Business-class passengers departing from Helsinki (HEL) on long-haul flights between October 4, 2017, and January 9, 2018, will be offered a centennial-themed menu featuring items such as Baltic herring, Karelian stew and a mushroom soup accented with cured elk. These selections highlight Nordic techniques and local produce while reflecting Finland’s culinary traditions.
On inbound long-haul flights to Helsinki during the same period, most business-class services will include elements inspired by the 100-years menu, including pickled salmon, rainbow trout and a Karelian stew made with beef and pork. The curated choices aim to present a balance of familiar and regional specialties.
Economy-class passengers are included as well. Menus for long-haul economy flights running from July 5, 2017, through January 9, 2018, are inspired by the nutritious meals commonly served in Finnish schools. Passengers can enjoy comforting options such as potatoes with meatballs and a macaroni and meat casserole, reflecting the straightforward, wholesome approach of Finnish everyday cuisine.
“Our main objective in partnering with the ELO Foundation on these initiatives is to help promote Finland’s healthy and delicious food culture to hundreds of thousands of international passengers flying with us this year,” says Maarit Keränen, head of inflight service at Finnair. “Healthy and balanced school meals are an essential element of the well-recognised Finnish school system, and we are proud to highlight these tasty meals as part of our in-cabin service.”
By integrating regional recipes and school-meal traditions into its onboard service, Finnair aims to introduce international travelers to Finland’s culinary identity while offering balanced, flavorful options across cabin classes during the centennial celebrations.