Finnair Baggage Policy

Understanding the Finnair Baggage Policy is essential for travelers planning a smooth journey, whether you’re flying within Europe or on long-haul international routes. Finnair, Finland’s flagship carrier, offers clear baggage guidelines for both carry-on and checked luggage, with allowances varying by fare class and destination. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Finnair’s baggage policy—from standard limits and excess fees to special items and lost baggage assistance—so you can pack with confidence and avoid unexpected costs at the airport.

Finnair Carry-On Baggage Policy: What You Need to Know

When flying with Finnair, understanding the carry-on baggage rules is essential to avoid last-minute surprises at the gate. The Finnair baggage policy encourages passengers to travel light and smart, particularly during peak seasons like winter when cabin space is in high demand due to heavy outerwear and increased luggage volumes.

Finnair Carry-on Allowance Based on Travel Class

Your carry-on allowance with Finnair varies depending on your fare type. Most passengers are permitted one standard carry-on bag plus a smaller personal item. However, Superlight ticket holders on Economy fares are limited to a small bag only—unless they are Finnair Plus elite members or purchase an add-on.

Here’s a brief outline: 

• Business Class (All Tiers): 1 cabin bag + 1 small item, total weight up to 12 kg
• Premium Economy & Economy (Flex, Classic, Light): 1 cabin bag + 1 small item, combined weight 8 kg
• Economy Superlight: No carry-on bag included, only 1 small item (carry-on bag can be purchased)

Passengers flying with a Superlight ticket can benefit from one complimentary carry-on bag on European routes if they are Finnair Plus Silver or higher-tier members.

Dimensions & Weight Limits

The Finnair Baggage Policy specifies exact size limits for hand luggage:

• Carry-on bag: Up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm
• Small personal item: Max. 40 x 30 x 15 cm
• Combined weight: Either 8 kg or 12 kg, depending on your fare

These items must be stored either in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. The overhead bins near emergency exit rows are reserved for passengers seated in those areas.

Avoiding Last-Minute Fees

Finnair strongly advises passengers to ensure their carry-on items meet the size and weight limits before arriving at the gate. Bags that exceed the allowance or are not included in the ticket will be checked into the cargo hold with an added fee of €60. Such changes, especially on fully booked flights, can lead to delays and inconvenience for all passengers. To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to check in excess carry-on baggage immediately upon arrival at the airport.

Carry-On Exceptions: Assistive Devices and Children

In addition to regular hand luggage, travelers can bring necessary assistive items—like CPAP machines, canes, or crutches—into the cabin free of charge. However, this does not extend to carrying extra bags beyond the standard allowance.

Children booked on a ticket (excluding lap infants) have the same hand luggage rights as adults. Infants without a seat do not receive separate carry-on allowances.

Musical Instruments Onboard

If you’re traveling with a musical instrument, Finnair allows you to bring it into the cabin if its total dimensions (L+W+H) are under 125 cm and it fits within your ticket’s carry-on weight limit. Common instruments like violins typically meet this requirement.

Restricted Items in Carry-On Bags

The Finnair Baggage Policy complies with strict aviation safety standards regarding what can and cannot be brought into the cabin:

• Restricted Liquids: All liquids should be in containers having a capacity of 100ml or less than that. In fact, they must fit inside a transparent plastic bag (max. 1 liter). This applies to toiletries, beverages, and sprays. As of September 1, 2024, travelers from Helsinki Airport can carry up to 2 liters without removing items at security, although the container size must still not exceed 100ml.
• Prohibited Items: Includes sharp tools, corkscrews, scissors, large lithium batteries, and some sporting equipment.
• Matches and Lighters: You can carry them in your pocket. However, they should not go in as part of your checked or hand baggage. 

Additionally, all purchases made at the airport, including duty-free goods, count toward your carry-on allowance.

Checked Baggage Allowance on Finnair

Under the Finnair baggage policy, travelers are generally entitled to one or more pieces of checked luggage depending on their route and ticket type. Finnair’s policy ensures flexibility across fare classes, covering a range of international and domestic journeys. Whether you’re heading to Asia, Europe, or North America, the airline provides a clear structure for baggage entitlements and options if you need to carry more.

What’s Included with Your Ticket

In most cases, your Finnair ticket includes at least one free checked bag. However, this depends on your class of service and travel destination. Passengers flying on Business Flex fares between Japan and Europe, for instance, are allowed up to three bags, each weighing a maximum of 32 kg. In contrast, passengers on Economy Light or Superlight tickets are not entitled to free checked baggage unless it is purchased as an additional service.

Here’s a general summary of the allowance:

• Business Flex & Classic: Up to 2–3 checked bags at 32 kg each on long-haul routes.
• Premium Economy Flex & Classic: Typically 1–2 bags, each up to 23 kg.
• Economy Flex & Classic: Includes 1–2 checked bags of 23 kg per piece depending on the region.
• Economy Light & Superlight: No checked baggage is included by default.

Children traveling on their own seat receive the same allowance as adults, while infants under two years are allowed one checked bag up to 23 kg, in addition to a stroller and car seat, free of charge.

Note: Baggage rules for flights involving Japan may vary depending on the country of origin or destination. Always check your specific route details when booking.

Baggage Drop & Early Check-In

Passengers flying from Helsinki Airport can conveniently drop off their checked luggage the evening before departure, helping to streamline their airport experience on the day of the flight. This service is especially beneficial during busy travel seasons or for early morning flights.

Checked Baggage Size & Weight Limits

According to the Finnair baggage policy, all checked bags must comply with both weight and size limits. Exceeding these may result in additional fees or the bag being classified as special baggage.

Size Specifications:

• Maximum dimensions: 90 x 75 x 45 cm
• Weight limit:
  • Economy & Premium Economy: 23 kg (50 lbs) per bag
  • Business Class:
    • Short-haul: 23 kg
    • Long-haul: 32 kg (70 lbs) per bag

Musical instruments and sporting equipment may be included in your standard checked baggage if they fall within these size and weight parameters. However, items that exceed these dimensions or require extra care (like bicycles or fragile instruments) may be categorized under special baggage.

Short-Haul vs. Long-Haul Flights

Finnair distinguishes between short-haul and long-haul services for baggage weight policies:

• Short-haul: Covers intra-European flights. Business Class travelers may only check bags weighing up to 23 kg.
• Long-haul: Includes flights to and from Asia, North America, and the Middle East, where Business Class allowances rise to 32 kg per piece.

Understanding your checked baggage rights according to the Finnair Baggage Policy ensures that you’re well-prepared, avoids unnecessary airport fees, and contributes to a smoother boarding process.

Extra Baggage Fees

Finnair understands that passengers may occasionally need to carry more than their standard allowance. To accommodate such needs, the Finnair baggage policy provides flexible options for purchasing extra baggage in advance or at the airport—with clearly defined prices depending on route, time of purchase, and baggage type.

Purchasing Extra Baggage

Passengers can carry up to 10 checked bags in total. If your ticket doesn’t include any checked baggage, or if you need to bring additional pieces, extra baggage must be purchased either during booking, through Finnair’s “Manage booking” tool, or at the airport. Notably, Finnair Plus members can use Avios points to cover these charges, offering extra value to frequent flyers.

Carry-On Baggage Fees

Travelers on Economy Superlight tickets, which do not include a carry-on bag, can purchase one as an extra service. Charges vary based on travel region and time of purchase. For example:

• Within Finland and Northern Europe: From €12–€25 if booked in advance, or €35 at the airport.
• Within the rest of Europe: Prepaid fees range from €16–€30, rising to €40 at the airport.
• If you bring an unpaid or oversized bag to the gate, a €60 fee is charged to place it in the hold.

Checked Baggage Charges

Checked baggage fees depend on the destination, ticket type, and whether you prepay or pay at the airport.

Prepaid Charges (Up to 23 kg per bag):

• Domestic & Northern Europe: €27–€50
• Other European destinations: €32–€55
• Asia/Middle East: €75–€100
• Japan: €80–€100
• North America: €75 / $75 / £70

Prepaid baggage can be purchased up to 50–80 minutes before departure, depending on the route.

Airport Charges (Up to 23 kg per bag):

• Within Finland & Northern Europe: From €65 for the first bag; subsequent bags cost €85–€95.
• Within Europe: First bag €70, then €90–€100 for additional bags.
• Between Europe & North America: First bag €90/$90/£75; second bag €105/$110/£90; additional €210/$215/£175.
• Asia & Middle East: First bag €120; second €150; additional €180.

Heavy and Oversized Baggage

Bags weighing 23–32 kg or exceeding 90 x 75 x 45 cm are subject to a heavy/oversized fee. The absolute size limit is 190 x 75 x 65 cm.

Prepaid Heavy Bag Charges (up to 32 kg):

• Within Europe: €65–€100
• Asia, Middle East, or Japan: €120–€150
• North America: €120 / $131

Airport Fees:

• Europe: €65 for heavy or oversized; €130 for both.
• Asia/North America: €85/$95 each for heavy or oversized; €170/$190 for both.

Special Baggage and Sports Equipment

Special baggage like bicycles, surfboards, skis, and golf clubs may incur a transportation fee.

• Bicycle (Europe): €73–€77
• Bicycle (Asia/North America): €100–€110
• Windsurf/kayaks/tandems: €150–€350
• Firearms: €60 (Europe), €110/$120 (long-haul)

These items can often be added while booking or later via “Manage booking.” Charges vary based on timing and region.

Musical Instruments

If your musical instrument fits within standard dimensions and weight (up to 23 kg), it can be part of your regular allowance. Larger items may require heavy bag fees or prior approval if they exceed the maximum permitted size.

Travelling with Pets

Pets can travel in the cabin (up to 8 kg) or the hold for an extra charge:

• Pet in cabin (Europe): €60–€65 or 7,800–8,500 Avios
• Pet in cabin (long-haul): €120–€130 or up to 17,100 Avios
• Pet in hold: €120 (Europe), €600/$650 (Asia/North America)

Bookings for pets in the hold should be made at least 7 days in advance via Finnair’s customer chat.

Refunds & Currency

Extra baggage fees are non-refundable unless your flight is disrupted or cancelled. Airport charges may vary due to currency exchange rates, and cash payments are not accepted at Helsinki Airport.

Special Baggage Guidelines on Finnair 

Whether you’re an athlete, musician, or traveler with unique packing needs, the Finnair baggage policy accommodates a wide variety of special baggage—ranging from sports gear to musical instruments. However, it’s essential to understand the size, weight limits, and reservation steps to ensure smooth handling of such items.

What Is Considered Special Baggage?

Special baggage generally refers to any item that exceeds the size and weight of a standard bag. As per the baggage policy, the standard baggage allowance should be more than 23kg (50lb) in weight and 90 x 75 x 45 cm in dimensions. 

If your baggage is larger or heavier—or if it belongs to a special category such as sports equipment or musical instruments—it will be subject to additional rules and potential fees.

Carrying Sports Equipment On Finnair 

Finnair makes it easy to travel with gear for various activities. Equipment that fits within the standard bag dimensions and weight is treated like any regular checked bag. If the item is oversized or heavier, additional charges apply.

• Bicycles – They are allowed in checked baggage. You must pack them in protective cases suitable for transporting bicycles. Remove the pedal, turn the handlebars, and reduce the tire’s air pressure to a minimum. If you do not pack your bicycle properly, it may not be accepted by Finnair. You cannot transport electric bikes in the checked baggage, even if you remove or disconnect the battery. 

• Skiing or ski-jumping equipment – From the 1st of June, 2023, skiing equipment is a part of special baggage. You must buy them separately, apart from your standard baggage allowance. Skii equipment includes skis (one or many pairs), ski poles, a helmet, and snowboard boots. For ATR aircraft-operated flights, you can’t transport ski jumping equipment. 

• Golf bags – Golf equipment has fallen under the special baggage category from the 1st of June 2023. You can pay for the golf equipment during booking or later through the Manage Booking tab. The maximum length shouldn’t exceed 190 cm. 

• Hockey equipment – It includes hockey sticks as well, sans any extra charge. However, the sticks will be regarded as extra baggage. If you have multiple hockey sticks, carry them together inside a stick bag. You may even tape them together. You cannot carry hockey sticks to the outer part of the bag using tape or a strap. 

• Diving equipment – It is regarded as one baggage piece. If they comply with the normal measurements, they are standard baggage, else they go in as special baggage in case they are overweight or oversized. At the airport, you will be charged excess baggage fees if the air tanks are a part of your diving equipment. 

• Vaulting poles – Long-haul flights charge €300 or $350 for vaulting poles. If you are traveling on a flight to Europe, it will cost you €150. The maximum weight shouldn’t exceed 32 kg. 

• Surfboards, kayaks, canoes, and windboards – Surfboards as much as 210 cm long and with a weight of around 23 kgs are regarded as special baggage. If the surfboard exceeds this measurement, then you have to pay a fee at the airport. 

• Sports guns and firearms – You can carry firearms in your checked baggage. However, you need to get Finnair’s approval beforehand. Ensure that all the permits and licenses are readied. You aren’t allowed to carry weapons to or via Doha, Hong Kong, and London Heathrow. In a firearm case, there may be at most two shotguns or rifles, or five guns. They will be a single baggage piece. You must unload the firearm and pack it well in sturdy baggage. 

Advance notification is required for most of these items—especially if your itinerary includes flights operated by other airlines or if you’re traveling in a group (e.g., 10+ passengers with skis). You can select and pay for the transportation of items like bicycles, skis, golf clubs, and surfboards during booking or through the “Manage booking” tool on Finnair’s website.

Heavy bag fees may apply for equipment up to 32kg (70lb). However, passengers traveling in Business Class on long-haul flights are exempt from heavy bag charges for such items (excluding infants).

Finnair’s Policy for Musical Instruments

Musicians flying with Finnair have flexible options depending on the size of their instrument.

Musical Instruments in the Cabin

Small instruments like violins (within 125cm total dimension) can be taken in the cabin, provided they are safely packed in a hard case and weigh no more than the carry-on limit (typically 8–12kg).

• The instrument counts as one carry-on item.
• You may even bring on a personal item like a handbag or laptop bag. 
• For the Economy Superlight tickets, you must separately purchase a carry-on. 

If your instrument is greater than the specified carry-on size but adheres to the weight, you can carry it onboard by buying a seat for it. Contact customer service way in advance. 

Musical Instruments in the Hold

Instruments weighing up to 23kg and fitting within 90 x 75 x 45cm can be checked in as standard baggage. You will incur an excess baggage charge if carrying large instruments that surpass 32 kg in weight and 190 x 75 x 65 cm in dimensions.

For even larger instruments, prior approval is required, and arrangements should be made via Finnair’s chat or customer care line.

Booking and Notification

If you’re carrying special baggage:

• Ensure your flights are operated and marketed by Finnair.
• Pay for the transport fee during booking or later via “Manage booking.”
• Notify Finnair in advance (especially for oversized, group, or complex items).
• Use customer service if your item isn’t listed in standard booking tools.

Note: If your itinerary includes another airline, different rules and fees may apply. Always check the specific carrier’s baggage policy before travel.

The Finnair baggage policy provides travelers with clear guidelines and flexible solutions for carrying sports and musical equipment, making the journey easier for those with specialized travel needs. By planning and understanding the charges, you can avoid delays or unexpected costs at the airport.

Restricted and Prohibited Items on Finnair’s Baggage Policy 

To ensure the safety of all passengers, the Finnair baggage policy outlines strict guidelines on what can and cannot be carried in your luggage. Whether you’re packing for leisure, business, or outdoor adventures, it’s crucial to understand these rules before heading to the airport.

Overview of What’s Allowed on Finnair Flights

Most everyday items like clothes, chargers, laptops, and toiletries are permitted. However, restrictions apply to certain items depending on whether they’re packed in carry-on or checked baggage.

Allowed with Conditions:

• Aerosols: Only in small quantities (max. 0.5L per container, 2L total per person), packed to prevent accidental release.
• Liquids: In carry-on, the liquids must be in containers of 100 ml or less and fit into a transparent, resealable 1L plastic bag.
• Batteries and Power Banks: Must be carried in hand baggage only and follow watt-hour and quantity limitations.
• Alcohol: Allowed up to 5 litres per person if under 70% alcohol volume. Not allowed over 70%.
• Medicines & Baby Food: Permitted in reasonable amounts for the flight duration.

Carry-On Restrictions

Under the Finnair baggage policy, carry-on bags must not include:

• Firearms, stun guns, or any item that can discharge a projectile.
• Sharp items (knives, box cutters) exceeding 6cm blade length.
• Tools and work equipment (e.g., drills, crowbars).
• Sporting bats or other blunt objects that can cause injury.
• Explosives, fireworks, or any form of pyrotechnics.

Note: Items like knitting needles, scissors (under 6cm), and umbrellas are allowed in the cabin.

Checked Baggage Restrictions

Although the checked baggage has more flexibility, some items are strictly prohibited, such as:

• Explosives and flammable items like ammunition, blasting caps, gunpowder, or fireworks.
• Gas containers and camping fuel stoves unless properly emptied and prepared according to dangerous goods guidelines.
• Hoverboards and electric scooters powered by lithium batteries.
• Self-inflating life jackets and avalanche rescue backpacks may require prior approval and are accepted only under specific guidelines.

Electronics, Batteries & E-Cigarettes

• Electronic devices (phones, tablets, laptops) are permitted in both baggage types, but lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in the cabin.
• E-cigarettes are allowed in carry-on only, not in checked baggage. However, they are banned on flights departing from Delhi.
• Devices containing non-removable lithium batteries (e.g., electric bikes) are not allowed at all.

Matchsticks, Lighters, and Other Essentials

• One lighter or box of safety matches is allowed on a person only—not in any luggage.
• Ski wax is allowed only if not labeled flammable.
• Powders are allowed but face additional scrutiny on flights to the USA.

Prohibited Items on All Finnair Flights

Regardless of where the item is packed, the following are completely banned on all Finnair flights:

• Mines, grenades, or military explosives
• Smoke canisters or cartridges
• Dynamite or plastic explosives
• Detonators and fuses
• Any item that poses a serious risk to the safety of the aircraft

Tip: Always consult the official Finnair website or customer service if you’re unsure about a specific item. Regulations may also vary for flights operated by partner airlines.

Understanding the rules for restricted and prohibited items helps ensure compliance with the Finnair baggage policy and avoids last-minute issues at airport security. If in doubt, it’s always best to double-check in advance and pack accordingly for a smooth journey.

Finnair’s Policy for Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage

While Finnair strives to ensure timely and secure baggage delivery, unforeseen issues may sometimes occur. If your bag arrives late, is damaged, or goes missing, the Finnair baggage policy provides clear steps to help you resolve the issue smoothly.

Delayed Baggage

If your checked baggage does not arrive at your destination, report the issue at the airport immediately at the Finnair baggage service desk. A Property Irregularity Report (PIR) will be created, and you’ll receive a reference number to track the status of your baggage.

You can also monitor the progress online through Finnair’s baggage tracing service or update delivery preferences once your bag is located. Most delayed baggage is returned to its owner within a few days.

Damaged Baggage

If you notice visible damage to your baggage upon arrival, report it before leaving the airport or within seven days of your flight. The damage must be assessed and documented via a PIR. Compensation may vary depending on the extent of damage and the nature of the baggage. In some cases, Finnair may arrange for the repair or replacement of the damaged item.

Tip: Always inspect your bag for visible signs of damage before leaving the baggage claim area.

Also Read: Malaysia Airlines Baggage Policy

Lost Carry-On or Personal Items

Suppose you left something behind on a Finnair flight or within Helsinki Airport premises after 9 September 2023. In that case, your item may have been handed over to the Excess Baggage Company at Helsinki Airport. You can contact them via:

• Website: www.lostproperty.org
• Email: helsinki@excess-baggage.com
• Phone: +358 9 81 71 19 68

For items forgotten outside Finland, please reach out to the local airport’s lost and found office. Depending on the situation, items may be returned to Helsinki and handled by Excess Baggage Company.

Important exceptions:

• Passports left on international flights are forwarded to Finnish Border Control (for non-Schengen flights) or the Excess Baggage Company (for Schengen area).
• Alcohol and tobacco products are handed over to Helsinki Airport Customs.

If your item was lost before 9 September 2023, contact Suomen Löytötavarapalvelu (Finland’s Lost Property Service) for assistance.

Conclusion

A clear understanding of the Finnair Baggage Policy is essential to ensure a smooth travel experience. From defined carry-on rules to checked luggage limits, Finnair offers structured baggage guidelines tailored to fare types and destinations. By preparing in advance, choosing add-ons wisely, and reviewing baggage terms carefully, passengers can travel efficiently and without last-minute surprises.

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