The official airline of Santa Claus: Finnair Spreads Christmas Spirit with Santa
In a world where the magic of Christmas illuminates every corner, Finnair takes the holiday spirit to soaring heights with none other than the jolly man himself – Santa Claus. This enchanting partnership with the world’s most famous gift-giver began already in 1983.
Since 1983, Finnair has held the privilege of being Santa Claus's official airline, embarking on an extraordinary worldwide journey. Together, they unveil Finland's mesmerising beauty and sow seeds of joy and wonder, touching the hearts of countless children and even those adults who still embrace the magic of Christmas.
This partnership didn't emerge by chance. Both Santa Claus and Finnair call Finland home – the top of the world, where geographical positioning creates natural bridges to East and West alike. Finland's unique location makes it the perfect gateway from which Christmas magic radiates across continents.
At the core of this magical partnership, you'll find Finnair's heartwarming collaboration with the Santa Claus Foundation, an organisation whose mission is to promote the well-being of children all around the world.
This year, Santa's adventures take him to captivating destinations such as London, Manchester, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Seoul. There, he leaves behind a trail of smiles and a sprinkle of Christmas spirit wherever he treads.
In Asia particularly, Santa's visits have generated remarkable enthusiasm over the years. People of all ages queue for the opportunity to meet the authentic Finnish Santa Claus – a moment that creates lasting memories across different cultures.
"The excitement is palpable when Santa arrives. People of all ages want to capture the moment with the authentic Finnish Santa Claus, recognised by his long white beard and warm, approachable presence," shares Jari Ahjoharju from the Santa Claus Foundation.
But it's not just about Santa's unmistakable charm and charisma; it's about something much deeper. "For us, it's, of course, crucial to remind the world that Santa hails from the enchanting land of Finland," he adds with a twinkle in his eye. "Spreading that message is a cherished part of our mission. Equally important is the work we do for children."
Santa remains Finland's most recognised symbol internationally. His main post office in Rovaniemi receives over 500,000 letters annually from approximately 200 countries – clear evidence that Christmas magic and Finland's role in preserving it remains strong in children's hearts everywhere.
As the world unites in the enchanting aura of Christmas, Finnair's timeless partnership with Santa Claus reminds us all that the true magic of the season is in giving, spreading joy and ensuring that every child, no matter where they are in the world, experiences the warmth and wonder of this extraordinary time of year. So, keep your eyes open – you might be able to share your wishlist in person this year if you bump into him in your home city!
When Santa boards a Finnair aircraft, he's not merely a passenger – he's an ambassador carrying Finnish Christmas tradition, hope, and joy. And we're proud to be part of this magic, year after year, for over four decades.
Celebrating over four decades of spreading Christmas joy together