After two years, we are witnessing a small Christmas miracle. Finnair finally flew Santa Claus to Japan once again! The Finnish airline is also carrying Father Christmas to India and Singapore this month.

A modern sleigh

Finnair has long claimed to be the official airline of Santa Claus. For several years, it has proudly promoted Christmas-related initiatives to spread some festive cheer. With Santa's Workshop believed by many to be based in Lapland, what is now generally referred to as the Finnish region of Sápmi, it's only natural that Finland's flag carrier serves as Santa's official transport.

This connection between the airline and Father Christmas is based on a collaboration with the Santa Claus Foundation. The charity partners with the operator to engage in a goodwill tour to visit schools and hospitals across numerous countries.

As Finnair puts it:

“Finnair has been the official airline of Santa Claus since 1983. Flying him across the globe from his homeland in Finland, it not only helps promote the image of the country around the world, but more importantly brings joy to thousands of children (and adults too).”

Finnair Santa Gift
Photo: Finnair

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Back in action

This initiative has had a particularly strong response in East Asia, with populations across the likes of China and Japan especially fond of Santa’s visits. However, with China still going through the motions of stringent COVID-19 restrictions, even his reindeer are subject to strict entry policies in the current climate. Still, Santa has plenty of lost time to make up for when it comes to visiting other Asia-Pacific nations.

As a result, Santa will be paying a visit to Tokyo between today and December 6th. He will then be staying in Singapore between December 8th and 11th before heading to Mumbai for a visit between December 15th and 18th.

Notably, due to the avoidance of Russian airspace, the trip to Tokyo Narita Airport took three more hours than usual. However, Santa was still full of joy as he landed, waving "Merry Christmas" to the locals when stepping out of the Airbus A350.

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’Tis the season

During this time of the year, Finnair is also busy flying passengers to visit Lapland. Notably, in late 2019, the company launched a new connection from London Gatwick to either Kittilä or Ivalo. This move capitalized on the gap left following the demise of Thomas Cook.

The airline also flies to Kuusamo, Oulu, and Rovaniemi across the region. It notes that guests can spend their nights in a cozy log house with a sauna or stargaze in a glass igloo. Aside from the festive opportunities to be had, there are several popular ski resorts to be enjoyed in the area. Overall, there is something for everyone this Christmas.

What are your thoughts about Finnair returning Santa Claus to Japan for the first time in two years? What do you make of the overall initiative? Let us know what you think in the comment section.

Source: NHK World-Japan

  • Finnair Airbus A350-941
    Finnair
    IATA/ICAO Code:
    AY/FIN
    Airline Type:
    Full Service Carrier
    Hub(s):
    Helsinki Airport
    Year Founded:
    1923
    Alliance:
    oneworld
    CEO:
    Topi Manner
    Country:
    Finland