Finnair launches first Australia flights with new route via Bangkok

Finnair is preparing to fly to Australia for the first time, introducing a daily service between Helsinki and Melbourne from 25 October 2026.

The new route will operate using Airbus A350 aircraft, travelling through Bangkok before continuing to Australia. It creates another option for European passengers planning a long-haul journey to Melbourne.

How the new Australia flights will work

The journey from Helsinki to Melbourne will take approximately 22 hours, including a technical stop in Bangkok lasting just under two hours.

Passengers will need to leave the aircraft with their hand luggage and pass through security before returning to the same plane. During the stop, the aircraft will be cleaned, refuelled and prepared for the onward journey, with a new cabin crew taking over.

Finnair's first Australian destination is part of its winter 2026 network expansion, providing connections through Helsinki to cities across Europe.

For passengers travelling from Britain, the service offers another possible itinerary to Melbourne, although reaching Helsinki will require a separate connecting flight.

What makes Melbourne worth visiting?

Melbourne is known for its restaurants, coffee culture, street art and sporting attractions, with its distinctive neighbourhoods offering plenty to explore.

Visitors can discover the city's markets and galleries, take a trip along the Great Ocean Road or head into the Yarra Valley for its scenery and vineyards.

The city also provides a starting point for exploring Victoria, including coastal towns, wildlife attractions and national parks.

Another option for European travellers

Long-haul journeys to Australia commonly involve connections through Asian or Middle Eastern airports, making flight times and transfer arrangements important considerations.

Finnair's new service differs from a conventional connecting itinerary because passengers continue towards Melbourne on the same aircraft after the Bangkok stop.

The route adds another choice for travellers comparing fares and journey times, while giving Finnair its first regular passenger connection to Australia.