Finavia adds more routes to Lapland from Gatwick, in new deal with easyJet
Posted: 10 August 2018 | International Airport Review | No comments yet
As Lapland’s tourism continues to boom, easyJet is providing a new route from London to Rovaniemi, which is scheduled to begin 31st October 2018
Finavia has announced its plans to invest in Lapland’s airport, Rovaniemi. The airport will expand by 75 per cent by the Christmas season of 2019 thanks to its €55 million investment which consequently is expected to support the tourism industry throughout Lapland.
As easyJet continues to expand, this route to Lapland is the latest route they offer. The route will operate twice a week on Wednesday and Sunday, which will begin 31st October 2018. easyJet expects the new service to carry more than 13,000 customers in the first winter of operation.
Sophie Dekkers, easyJet UK commercial director said: “We are really pleased to be able to offer easy and affordable connections to our customers to a destination which previously had limited low fare options. We are sure this route will prove a popular addition to our route network from London Gatwick especially for families wishing to visit Santa or travellers wishing to experience the Northern lights.”
Join us live: Shaping the Next Generation of Hold Baggage and Air Cargo Screening
Join us live for an insightful webinar on 11th December at 14:00 GMT, in collaboration with Smiths Detection, as we explore the strategic balance of operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and sustainability in high-volume security environments.
This session offers a focused look into future-proofing your security strategy.
Key learning points
- Cost Reduction: Strategies to minimize bag travel time while simultaneously reducing operational costs.
- Regulatory Roadmap: Insights into the next wave of regulatory changes and their impact on future investment decisions.
- Sustainable Systems: Practical approaches to building sustainability into security systems and lowering the total cost of ownership (TCO).
- Scalable Solutions: Real-world examples of scalable systems supporting current airport growth and preparing for tomorrow.
Register now for expert insights, case studies, and actionable strategies on operational efficiency!
Rovaniemi is a popular destination among British travellers especially during the Christmas season and throughout the winter period. As a gateway to Lapland, Rovaniemi airport serves many neighbouring travel resorts as well, all within short driving distance.
Sanna Kärkkäinen, the CEO of Visit Rovaniemi said: “We are happy for the new connection that serves the visitors to meet Santa and to experience the Magic of Christmas any day at the Arctic Circle.The magical Northern Lights can be seen from August to April and there are many tours available. In winter season many travellers go on husky sleigh rides, reindeer farm visits, snowmobile safaris and skiing.”
Finavia says that the new route an important milestone for Lapland’s tourism. Jani Jolkkonen, Senior Vice President of Airport Network at Finavia said: “Finavia’s investment decision in the spring was done precisely to support Lapland’s tourism growth. We are happy to contribute to this with easyJet by making it possible to fly there directly. The route also shows how Lapland’s attractiveness as a destination is growing. To support this, smooth cooperation between the airline, Visit Rovaniemi and airports is crucial.”
The International Airport Summit is open for registration!
Date: 19 – 20 November 2025
Location: JW Marriott Hotel Berlin
At our flagship event of the year, we will dive into the future of airport operations, with expert-led sessions on passenger experience, innovative smart technologies, baggage handling, airside operations, data, security, and sustainability.
This is where global airport leaders come together to share insights, challenges, and real-world solutions.
Limited complimentary passes are available for eligible professionals – first come, first served!
Related topics
Airport development, Passenger volumes, Route development, Tourism, Winter operations
Chief Executive Officer
CEO
Chief Operating Officer
Head of Operations, Safety and Emergency
Chief Strategy Development Officer
Head of Operations
Airport General Manager
CEO
Chief Executive Officer