Published on
January 19, 2026
A long-awaited aviation connection between China and Finland is set to be restored as China Southern Airlines prepares to launch direct flights between Beijing Daxing International Airport and Helsinki Airport after a five-year absence. The revival of this route is being widely viewed as a significant milestone for air connectivity between East Asia and Northern Europe, particularly as global travel demand continues its steady recovery. Finland, frequently recognized as the happiest country in the world, has emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for both leisure and business travelers seeking stability, sustainability, and high living standards.
The reinstated service is expected to enhance mobility between major economic and cultural centers in China, Finland, and the wider European region. From the Chinese perspective, Beijing’s modern southern hub offers expansive domestic and regional transfer possibilities across Asia. From the Nordic side, Helsinki’s efficient airport infrastructure provides seamless access to multiple European destinations.
This renewed air bridge is also being positioned as a strategic move that aligns with broader aviation trends, including diversification of European gateways and growing interest in calmer, climate-conscious destinations. With strong implications for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange, the return of this route is being closely followed by industry observers and travelers alike.
Historic Beijing–Helsinki Route Returns
A new long-haul service connecting Beijing Daxing International Airport with Helsinki Airport is scheduled to begin on March 29, 2026. This development marks the first time China Southern Airlines will operate flights to Finland and the Nordic region. The route represents the reopening of a key intercontinental link that has been unavailable for five years, during which demand for direct China–Northern Europe connectivity has steadily accumulated.
The service is planned to operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays during the initial phase. From June 20, 2026, daily operations are scheduled to be introduced, reflecting confidence in sustained passenger demand. Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft are to be deployed on the route, ensuring operational efficiency and long-haul comfort.
Flight Schedule and Aircraft Deployment
Under the planned schedule, flights are expected to arrive in Helsinki at 18:35 and depart back to Beijing at 20:35. The use of Boeing 787-9 aircraft is considered well suited for the route, offering modern cabin design, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced passenger experience on long-distance services.
The choice of Beijing Daxing International Airport as the Chinese gateway further strengthens the route’s appeal. As one of the world’s newest and largest airports, Daxing has been designed to support high-capacity international operations while offering smooth transfer processes for connecting passengers.
Strategic Importance for Finland and the Nordics
For Finland, the introduction of this route is seen as a strategic gain that reinforces Helsinki Airport’s role as a Northern European gateway to Asia. Existing connections to China are currently maintained by Finnair and Juneyao Airlines through services to Shanghai and Zhengzhou. The addition of China Southern Airlines is expected to diversify airline presence and improve route resilience.
Helsinki Airport has long been recognized for its efficient layout and short transfer times, factors that are particularly attractive to long-haul travelers. With the return of a direct Beijing connection, Finland’s accessibility from Asia is being significantly improved, benefiting tourism, business travel, and cargo operations.
Expanded Connectivity Through Beijing Daxing
Passengers traveling from Finland are expected to benefit from extensive onward connections via Beijing Daxing International Airport. The airport provides access to a broad network of destinations across mainland China and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
Key onward markets include South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, and Bangladesh, among others. This connectivity is likely to appeal to both corporate travelers and leisure passengers seeking efficient multi-city itineraries. Beijing itself, home to more than 22 million residents, serves as a major political, economic, and commercial hub, hosting the headquarters of leading Chinese corporations and numerous international firms.
China Southern Airlines Strengthens European Network
China Southern Airlines, headquartered in Guangzhou in Guangdong Province, is already an established presence in the European aviation market. Its existing network includes major cities such as Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, Rome, Frankfurt, London, Luxembourg, and Istanbul.
The addition of Helsinki is expected to further strengthen the airline’s European footprint while opening new opportunities in the Nordic region. This expansion aligns with broader efforts by Chinese carriers to rebuild and modernize long-haul networks following prolonged global disruptions.
Finland as an Emerging Travel Alternative
Finland is increasingly being positioned as a calm and climate-friendly alternative to Europe’s more crowded destinations. Cooler temperatures, low population density, and a strong emphasis on wellness and sustainability have contributed to its growing appeal. Helsinki, in particular, has been leading this shift by combining urban sophistication with easy access to nature.
Travelers are often drawn to the city’s efficient public transport, walkable layout, and high environmental standards. English proficiency among residents further enhances accessibility for international visitors, reducing common travel barriers.
Helsinki’s Evolving Luxury and Hospitality Scene
Helsinki’s tourism offering has been further elevated by the opening of The Hotel Maria, a luxury property located in the historic Kruununhaka district. The hotel occupies four restored historic buildings and forms part of Preferred Hotels and Resorts’ Legend Collection.
With 117 rooms, including 38 suites, the property emphasizes privacy, wellness, and personalized service. In-room saunas or steam rooms, natural light-filled spa spaces, and tailored wellness experiences rooted in Finnish traditions have been incorporated to meet the expectations of high-end travelers. The balance between heritage preservation and contemporary comfort has been widely highlighted as a defining feature.
Culinary Culture and Local Experiences
Dining in Helsinki is characterized by a focus on seasonal ingredients and understated presentation. Local institutions such as Cafe Story in the Old Market Hall are known for traditional dishes like salmon soup, particularly popular during lunch hours.
For more distinctive settings, Restaurant Sarkanlinna offers Nordic cuisine within a historic island fortress, while Wellamo in Katajanokka provides a quieter, residential atmosphere with seasonal menus and local gin selections. These experiences collectively reflect Finland’s emphasis on authenticity and quality over excess.
Nature, Wellness, and Everyday Calm
Sauna culture remains central to daily life in Finland, and Helsinki offers several waterfront venues that combine tradition with modern design. Loyly and Allas Sea Pool allow visitors to alternate between sauna heat and sea water throughout the year, introducing Finnish wellness practices in an accessible format.
Beyond the city, Finland’s vast lake district, home to more than 188,000 lakes, can be reached within an hour from Helsinki. Clean water, forested landscapes, and quiet shorelines reinforce the country’s reputation for environmental stewardship and quality of life.
The resumption of direct flights between Beijing and Helsinki by China Southern Airlines is being recognized as a timely and strategic development for both China and Finland. By restoring a long-missed connection, the route is expected to stimulate tourism, strengthen business ties, and enhance cultural exchange between Asia and Northern Europe.
As Finland continues to gain attention as a premium yet relaxed destination, and as Beijing Daxing International Airport grows in global importance, this renewed air link is positioned to play a meaningful role in shaping future travel patterns between the two countries.
