In winter conditions, forecasts and planning are crucial steps to ensure the smooth air traffic. When weather forecasts predict challenging conditions, preparations begin at the airports. The first proper winter conditions of this winter season are expected at Helsinki Airport in mid-November, and winter operations will likely continue until March. At Lapland airports, winter conditions and operations continue significantly longer into the spring compared to airports in southern Finland.
Finavia is responsible for runway clearing, and during heavy snowfall, a runway may need to be cleared twice in an hour. When a runway is being cleared, it is not available for air traffic. During that time, planes have to wait their turn. Therefore, at busy airports like Helsinki Airport, the number of departing and arriving flights may need to be reduced which can cause delays. Closing a runway due to weather conditions is very rare in Finland, but on some occasions, this measure may be necessary to ensure safety. Usually, a runway closure is considered when freezing drizzle makes the runway surfaces extremely slippery.
Air traffic may also need to be restricted due to very strong wind. Additionally, during the winter season, aircraft need to be de-iced before departure, and there may be delays in baggage handling because transporting baggage from the aircraft to the terminal is slower due to snow. Airlines are responsible for luggage. We ask passengers to contact their airline regarding luggage if necessary
We kindly ask passengers to actively follow their airline’s passenger communications for up-to-date information. When weather conditions affect air traffic, other forms of transportation are usually also impacted. To ensure a smooth start to your journey, we ask passengers to allow enough time to arrive at the airport, so that there is sufficient time for parking, check-in, baggage drop, security checks, and border controls.
Ensuring safety in all airport operations is the most important thing. It is normal for heavy snowfall, gusty winds, and otherwise challenging weather conditions to cause delays in air traffic. Finavia and airport communities at all Finavia airports do their best to ensure safe and smooth travel.
Read more about winter maintenance and snowhow
How Finavia prepares for the winter season
What is "target snow removal"?
