Helsinki Airport chosen as one of the most beautiful airports in the world

Posted: 8 December 2023 | International Airport Review | No comments yet

“We are proud that Helsinki Airport’s Finnish architecture and design are recognised worldwide. For many passengers, the airport is their first contact with Finland, and it serves as a showcase for our country’s expertise and innovations. It’s great that Finavia can play a role in creating a positive image of Finland,” says Ulla Serlenius, Finavia’s SVP, Helsinki Airport.

The internationally renowned Prix Versailles architecture competition is held annually. This is the first time the category of the most beautiful airports has been included. The award criteria included innovation, creativity, consideration of local natural and cultural heritage in the design and eco-friendliness. In last year’s competition, Helsinki Airport received an award for the interior design of the terminal. Learn more about the competition from the organiser’s webpage.

The design and implementation of Helsinki Airport’s new terminal was guided by Finnishness and sustainable choices. Attention has been paid to domestic materials, energy-saving solutions and reducing the carbon footprint of construction.

“Finnish nature inspired the interior design of the terminal. The Luoto green structure of the arrivals hall welcomes passengers to Finland as soon as they step out of the baggage claim hall. On the other hand, the stunning wooden ceiling of the departures hall, made entirely of Finnish spruce, creates a calm atmosphere right at the beginning of one’s trip,” Serlenius continues.

Photo: The Luoto green structure in the arrivals hall is the first sight for passengers arriving in Finland. CREDIT: FINAVIA CORP

Photo: the roof of the departures hall is made up of 500 individual wooden elements. CREDIT: FINAVIA CORP

The airport’s terminal extension has received multiple awards. The awards were given for the steel structure and building information modelling of the terminal building, the spectacular wooden ceiling of the departures hall and sustainable construction, among other things. Earlier this year, Helsinki Airport was also selected as the best airport in Europe in its size category.

The terminal extension was opened in 2021 as part of Helsinki Airport’s historic development programme, which was successfully completed by Finavia in the autumn of 2023.