What makes Finnair business class so special?

Finnair’s long‑haul business class features the carrier’s AirLounge seat, a sculpted, curved shell seat (not the usual reclining sort) offering multiple postures — from upright work mode to full lie‑flat rest. It’s got Nordic polish throughout: Marimekko textiles, Harri Koskinen tableware, and an 18-inch entertainment screen with USB‑C and wireless charging built in.

How is the inflight food and dining experience in Finnair business class?

Expect clean, Nordic‑inspired cuisine: 2 starters, chef‑crafted mains (often combining Finnish ingredients with global flavors), cheese, and dessert — all paired with thoughtful wine selections. On late departures to Asia, there’s usually a brunch before arrival. You can preselect your main course for less guessing on many flights, available online 24 hours or more before departure.

How can I book Finnair business class using Avios?

Finnair uses Avios (the same currency as British Airways and Iberia, among others). You can transfer Capital One miles into Finnair Plus. Award rates start around 62,500 Avios one‑way to North America, plus you can transfer numerous types of points to other Avios programs, and then you can move those to Finnair. You can book Finnair flights with Avios and pay reasonable surcharges. Typically, if you book right when the schedule opens, you should find at least 2 business‑class award seats per long‑haul flight.

Can I upgrade a Finnair economy or premium economy ticket to business class using Avios?

Yes! After you book (even in premium economy), you can request an upgrade in Finnair’s online portal or mobile app. Upgrade availability depends on clearance — which is typically up to 36 hours before departure — and the Avios you paid will be refunded on a prorated basis if you cancel.

Can I book Finnair business class with points?

Yes, you have several options for using points to fly in Finnair’s business class seats. Along with using Avios in Finnair Plus, you can book these seats with programs from Finnair’s Oneworld alliance partners like British Airways, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and more. If you have points and miles with those airlines, you can book Finnair business class — subject to verifying that award seats are available, of course.

Best Ways To Book Finnair Business Class With Points [Step by Step]

Updated: September 4, 2025, 3:00pm CDT

Edited by:

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Table of Contents

A Look Inside Finnair Business Class
How To Fly Finnair Business Class Using Points
Great Finnair Business Class Redemptions
How To Earn Enough Miles for Finnair Business Class
When Should You Search for Award Space?
What Makes Finnair Business Class a Great Redemption?
Final Thoughts

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From a unique seat and interesting design elements to a heavy focus on local food and beverages, flying in Finnair business class is a great way to experience comfort on long-haul flights.

To be fair, Finnair also offers business class on short-haul flights, though this is little more than a glorified economy seat with no one sitting in the middle. The long-haul experience, on the other hand, is excellent. It comes with a lie-flat seat, Finnair touches on both the menu and the cabins, and friendly service from the crew.

So how do you get a seat without breaking the bank? Luckily, you have multiple options for booking Finnair business class with points and miles rather than paying cash.

A Look Inside Finnair Business Class

Finnair introduced its custom-designed Collins Aerospace AirLounge seats in early 2022, and these seats started serving all flights between the U.S. and Finland in 2023. Unlike traditional business class seats that recline from the seated position until you’re lying flat, these seats don’t recline. To be clear, though, they still offer a lie-flat experience.

Rather than recline, these seats are built like cocoons or pods to envelop passengers and let them lounge in numerous positions — almost like hanging out on your sofa at home. Plus, the shell around each pod is intentionally tall to provide privacy for each passenger.

Finnair A350XWB business class height of seat — That’s a tall divider for great privacy!

Finnair’s long-haul business class, like on routes from the U.S. to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL), features a 1-2-1 layout. Seats in the center section have a divider that can be lowered for passengers to talk to each other or raised if you’re flying next to someone you don’t know.

The reverse-herringbone layout in this cabin means all window seats are essentially the same, while all middle seats are essentially the same. Choosing a seat in the middle of the cabin, away from the galleys and lavatories, makes for a quieter flight.

Finnair offers business class on flights outside the U.S., as well, and across multiple plane types. Here’s a look at the layout in business on each plane type:

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Finnair Plane Type	Business Class Layout
Airbus A319	2-2
Airbus A320	2-2
Airbus A321	2-2
Airbus A330-900	1-2-1
Airbus A350-900	1-2-1
ATR 72-500	2-2
Embraer 190LR	2-2

It’s worth noting that business class on the A330 and A350 models provides a lie-flat experience. Business on the other plane types don’t; these are merely recliner seats with extra space. Moreover, the A319, A320, and A321 planes have a blocked middle seat between passengers in the 2-2 layout, essentially mirroring the 3-3 layout in economy but without a passenger in the middle seat. The ATR and Embraer aircraft don’t have this, so the 2 passengers sit next to each other in the smaller planes.

When flying with Finnair in business class, you get perks like priority boarding, dedicated overhead bins, a smaller passenger-to-crew ratio, and a welcome drink. Blueberry juice, a Finnish tradition, is available and highly recommended. Finnair also provides amenity kits to business passengers on long-haul flights.

How To Fly Finnair Business Class Using Points

Finnair (airline code AY) is a member of the Oneworld alliance. That means it partners with carriers like Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Qatar Airways, and others, making it possible to redeem points and miles from those programs to fly on Finnair.

Each program has its positives and negatives, and the pricing on each isn’t the same. The price depends on the route you’re taking, and it’s worth comparison-shopping across these loyalty programs.

Presently, Finnair serves the following North American airports:

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Airport	Flight Distance From Helsinki (HEL) in Miles
Toronto (YYZ)	4,098
New York City (JFK)	4,103
Chicago (ORD)	4,421
Seattle (SEA)	4,765
Miami (MIA)	5,171
Dallas (DFW)	5,209
Los Angeles (LAX)	5,597

As several of the rewards programs we’ll discuss use the flight distance to determine how many points or miles you need for an award reservation, these numbers are important. If you’re looking at other flights with Finnair, you can use sites like FlightConnections or Great Circle Mapper to find the flight distance.

Finnair Plus

The easiest way to book Finnair business class — as well as seats in economy or Finnair premium economy — is with its own Finnair Plus program. Finnair Plus provides its own members access to more seats using Avios than it shares with other programs, meaning you find more award seats available with it, even if the price might be lower using another program.

Redeeming Finnair Avios, you pay more the farther you fly and pay for each segment separately — with the exception of a connecting flight in Northern Europe. For example, a booking from Chicago to Helsinki to Singapore (SIN) charges each flight separately according to its zone and distance. However, Chicago to Helsinki to Stockholm (ARN) wouldn’t charge you any Avios for the flight within Northern Europe, just the flight across the ocean from Chicago.

You pay the following number of Avios for flights to or from Helsinki:

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To/From Helsinki	Economy	Premium Economy	Business
Finland and Northern Europe	6,500	–	10,000
Central Europe	10,000	–	18,000
Western and Southern Europe	13,000	–	20,000
Canary Islands, Madeira, and Israel	15,00	–	25,000
Doha, Dubai, and India	28,000	42,000	55,000
Eastern Asia and North America	30,000	43,500	62,500

With the rule that you don’t pay extra Avios for a connection within Europe, the 62,500 rate above applies to this business class award from Chicago through Helsinki to Stockholm. It also has $158.40 in taxes and fees.

Finnair business award ORD HEL ARN — Cost of an award from the U.S. to Finland or northern Europe, including Warsaw and the Baltics. Image Credit: Finnair

How To Book These Awards Online

From Finnair’s website, click on “Award flight” above the search box, and you’ll be prompted to log in if you haven’t already. Now you’ll be able to enter your origin and destination and search for a one-way or round-trip flight. After providing this information, additional boxes will appear, asking about the number of passengers, date, and intended class of travel.

The search results will display the date you chose plus up to 3 days before and 3 days after, including the lowest available price on each of those dates.

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards

Alaska Airlines is in the Oneworld alliance with Finnair, and its Atmos Rewards program offers fair rates for booking Finnair business class. Atmos Rewards determines award costs by the distance and zone you’re flying from or to.

Flights from North America to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa have the following prices (in points):

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Distance (Miles)	Economy	Premium Economy	Business
Under 1,500	7,500	10,000	15,000
1,501 to 3,500	22,500	30,000	45,000
3,501 to 5,000	27,500	35,000	55,000
5,001 to 7,000	35,000	45,000	70,000
7,001 to 10,000	42,500	55,000	85,000
10,001 and above	55,000	72,500	110,000

With a distance-based chart, adding a connecting flight doesn’t cost extra if you’re still within the same distance band. However, adding a connection that pushes you into a higher distance band could significantly raise the price.

Taxes and fees aren’t bad on this Chicago-Helsinki award at just $19 per person.

Alaska ORD HEL Finnair — Using Atmos Rewards points from Chicago to Helsinki. Image Credit: Alaska Airlines

You pay 55,000 points for flights departing the East Coast and 70,000 points from western departure points like Los Angeles.

How To Book These Awards Online

On Alaska Airlines’ website, make sure to click the “Use miles” box and then search as you normally would, putting in your dates, route, number of passengers, and whether you’re looking for a one-way, round-trip, or multiple-city booking. If you choose flexible dates, you’ll see a month’s worth of dates that can help you hunt for the best prices.

On the calendar page, you can change the fare type to business class, which can help you narrow down those awards.

Hot Tip:

Remember that Alaska Airlines offers stopovers on award tickets, and these don’t cost any extra points.

American Airlines AAdvantage

Since the AAdvantage program treats the continental U.S. as 1 region, you pay the same number of miles for a Finnair business class flight whether you’re heading to Helsinki from New York City or Los Angeles.

Plus, you pay just $5.60 in taxes on these awards when departing the U.S. That cost is $39.81 flying in the other direction.

AAdvantage award DFW HEL Finnair business — 57,500 miles from the middle of the U.S. to Finland is a good price. Image Credit: American Airlines

How To Book These Awards Online

On AA.com, input your flight details and click the box next to “Redeem miles.” On the search results page, you can click on “Calendar” on the right side to see a month’s worth of dates. Even better, once the calendar pops up, you can filter by number of stops and cabin class. Choosing nonstop itineraries to HEL in business class will help you find what you’re looking for.

Avios Programs: Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, and Qatar Airways

Aer Lingus AerClub, The British Airways Club, Club Iberia Plus, and Qatar Airways Privilege Club all use Avios as their currency — yes, the same Avios as Finnair’s program. Because of that, you can transfer Avios instantly and freely between these programs, letting you use whichever has the best price and award availability for the flights you want.

That flexibility is handy because the programs don’t charge the same number of Avios or the same cash copay.

Consider a nonstop flight from Dallas to Helsinki in June 2026. British Airways charges 62,500 Avios plus $1,088 per person.

British Avios redemption Finnair DFW HEL business — That’s a lot of cash! Image Credit: British Airways

You pay the same number of Avios with Aer Lingus, just with slightly lower taxes and fees.

Meanwhile, Qatar Airways charges you 77,250 Avios — that’s 14,750 more — but just around $100 in taxes and fees. Trading 14,750 Avios for $1,000 in cash savings makes those extra Avios worth 14.75 cents apiece. That’s crazy good.

Qatar Avios redemption Finnair DFW HEL business — Paying roughly 15,000 Avios more to save about $1,000. Image Credit: Qatar Airways

Meanwhile, Iberia charges 77,250 Avios and around $300 in taxes in fees.

How To Book These Awards Online

The process for booking flights with Avios is slightly different depending on the program:

Aer Lingus: Using the rewards page, you can try to input your origin and destination airports, but the website often doesn’t recognize airports Aer Lingus doesn’t fly to. That means you may need to call to book Finnair flights using AerClub.
British Airways: On the British Airways website, click on “Book” on the menu at the top, then choose “Book a flight with Avios.” On the next page, enter the flight details, dates, number of passengers, and what cabin you want to fly in. The results page will show 7 days of dates for you to view availability.
Iberia: On the flight search page, enter your travel dates, number of passengers, and route information, then click the box next to “Pay with Avios.” Change the drop-down menu from “Lowest Fare” to “Business.”
Qatar Airways: On the home page, you can click the box for “Book using Avios” to search for flights normally. The results page will show 7 days of flights across the top, helping you see the lowest price on nearby dates in case you have flexibility.

Japan Airlines Mileage Bank

Mileage Bank uses a fixed award chart, eliminating the guesswork of peak and off-peak pricing. The partner chart outlines how many miles you’d pay by distance.

Luckily, all Finnair flights from the U.S. to Helsinki are between 4,000 and 6,000 miles, so they’re all in the same distance band for using Mileage Bank miles. You pay 60,000 miles plus $159.50 for a business class ticket between DFW and HEL.

JMB award price DFW HEL Finnair — Sample flight from Dallas to Helsinki. Image Credit: Japan Airlines

How To Book These Awards Online

After logging in to your Mileage Bank account, click on “JAL MILEAGE BANK” at the top right corner of the page. This takes you to your account page, which shows your mileage balance, upcoming flights, and other details. Scroll down until you see an icon of 2 hands shaking and the text “JMB Partner Airlines Award Tickets.”

Clicking on that will produce a pop-up window to either “Book ticket” or “Manage bookings.” Click on the option to book a ticket, which will lead you to the following page. Make sure you have the partner award ticket tab activated at the top of the page. You’ll see options for building custom itineraries or multicity awards, but you can ignore those and stay on the default option for “Round-trip/One-way,” which you should land on automatically.

From here, choose the type of ticket you want, choose Finnair as the partner, and then provide the flight information and number of passengers. You also need to indicate whether the person redeeming miles is traveling on the flight.

JMB award search page partner flight — Searching for partner awards uses a different interface. Image Credit: Japan Airlines

Other Ways To Book Finnair Business Class

Since Finnair partners with the other 14 members of the Oneworld alliance, you can use points and miles from any of those programs to book a Finnair business class ticket. However, amassing rewards is easier in some of those programs than others.

There are 2 other options worth mentioning here: Cathay Pacific’s Cathay program and Qantas Frequent Flyer.

With either program, you pay more miles the farther you fly. Luckily, the taxes and fees won’t change by distance.

Cathay charges 63,000 miles for a flight from New York City to Helsinki, but you pay 89,000 miles from Dallas or Los Angeles (LAX). On any of these flights, the cash portion is reasonable, at $202.

Qantas charges a flat $188 on these routes, and you pay 75,000 points out of JFK. From DFW or LAX, you pay 90,000 points.

Qantas award Finnair LAX HEL business — Using Qantas Points for a flight out of Los Angeles. Image Credit: Qantas

Great Finnair Business Class Redemptions

U.S. West Coast to Europe

Redeeming American Airlines miles for flights from the U.S. to Europe costs the same whether you’re taking a short hop from the East Coast or flying all the way from the West Coast. That makes the value proposition higher for West Coast travelers.

AA redemption LAX HEL Finnair business — Image Credit: American Airlines

The price of 57,500 miles also applies if you add a connection elsewhere in Europe, connecting through Helsinki with Finnair. Just note that the second flight will be a European-style business class with a recliner seat and blocked middle that otherwise resembles economy.

Finland to India

At more than 8 hours, you should get a good chance to explore all that Finnair business class offers when flying from Helsinki to New Delhi (DEL). You also redeem AA miles for the best price on this route, paying 42,500 miles per person and just $26 in taxes and fees.

AA redemption HEL DEL Finnair business — Image Credit: American Airlines

You can pay this same price between Helsinki and Dubai (DXB), as well, but the flight to India is 2 hours longer, making the redemption more valuable.

Finland to Hong Kong

Finnair operates a flight to Hong Kong (HKG) that clocks in at more than 12 hours — lots of time to enjoy the business class experience. And you can book this flight for just 63,000 miles plus $41 using Cathay Pacific’s Cathay rewards program.

Cathay redemption HEL HKG Finnair business — Image Credit: Cathay Pacific

How To Earn Enough Miles for Finnair Business Class

There are several options for earning Finnair Plus Avios, even if you don’t live in Finland. First, you can fly with Finnair or its partners and credit your earnings to Finnair Plus on paid flights.

You can also transfer the following rewards to Finnair:

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Program	Transfer Rate
Capital One Miles	1:1
Mesa Points	1:1
Shangri-La Circle	1:1
ALL – Accor Live Limitless	2:1.3
IHG One Rewards	5:1

Plus, now that Finnair has adopted Avios as its currency, you can transfer between Finnair and other Avios-based rewards programs. This opens the door to earning with Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, and Qatar Airways, and then moving your Avios over to Finnair for a redemption.

Thus, any credit card earning those rewards — or points that transfer to them, such as Amex Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards — can help you earn Finnair Avios.

Here are the points that transfer to other programs we’ve discussed:

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards: Bilt Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy, along with several not-great hotel transfer partners
American Airlines AAdvantage: Citi ThankYou Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, and World of Hyatt
Japan Airlines Mileage Bank: Barclays Arrival Miles, Bilt Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, and several not-great hotel transfer partners

Recommended Capital One Cards (Personal)

Capital One miles transfer directly to Finnair at a 1:1 ratio, and most transfers are instant. Earning Capital One miles with a credit card can help you easily book a Finnair flight.

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U.P. Rating

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

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10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
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Cons

$395 annual fee
Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status

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Card Highlights

Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
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U.P. Rating

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

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Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Welcome OfferEarn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
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UP's Offer Valuation*:
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Annual Fee

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APR

Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

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5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
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Cons

$95 annual fee
Limited elite benefits

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Card Highlights

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
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Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®
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Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Financial Snapshot

APR: Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Capital One Miles

If you’re a business owner, see our article on Capital One business credit cards.

Recommended Chase Cards (Personal)

Since Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer to several programs you can use to book Finnair flights, these cards can help you unlock your next redemption:

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

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A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

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$795

APR

20.24% - 28.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Excellent

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8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
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Cons

$795 annual fee

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Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
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Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
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Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

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A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome OfferEarn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
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UP's Offer Valuation*:
$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

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19.99% - 28.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

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Cons

$95 annual fee
No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel^SM, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel^SM
10% anniversary points boost – each account anniversary you’ll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 19.99% - 28.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Are you a small business owner? See our article on Chase business credit cards that earn Ultimate Rewards.

Recommended American Express Cards (Personal)

American Express points transfer to numerous airline programs, and you can use several of them to book a business class seat with Finnair. Consider using these cards to help make that happen.

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See Pay Over Time APR

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Pros & Cons

Pros

The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

$695 annual fee (rates and fees)
Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

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Card Highlights

You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel^® up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel^®.
$200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card^® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
Enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection, with over $500 of annual value if you visit Centurion Lounges and each of our partner lounges including Delta Sky Club^® lounges when flying an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations) , select Lufthansa lounges when flying Lufthansa, Plaza Premium lounges and Escape Lounges, and enroll in Priority Pass Select. See terms.
A Walmart+ membership can get you free shipping with no order minimum on eligible items shipped by Walmart. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) and receive one statement credit for up to $12.95 (plus applicable taxes. Plus Ups not eligible) each month. Free Shipping excludes most Marketplace items, freight & certain location surcharges. Paramount+ Essential plan only, separate registration required.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card^® Account. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
$200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card^® Members can ride or dine in style with $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus $20 in December after adding their Card to their Uber account. Use your Uber Cash on rides and orders in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
$199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. Receive up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for your CLEAR Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the Platinum Card^®.
Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card^®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card^®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
Use Global Dining Access by Resy to access premium dining experiences. Receive Priority Notify and unlock insider access to some of the world's most sought-after restaurants with Global Dining Access by Resy. Download the Resy iOS app or log into Resy.com and add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile to take advantage of your special benefits and discover restaurants near you.
$695 annual fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: See Pay Over Time APR
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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American Express Membership Rewards

NEW OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

American Express^® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Welcome OfferYou may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
As High As 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:
Up to   $2,200

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

Cons

$325 annual fee (rates and fees)
No lounge access

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Card Highlights

You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: See Pay Over Time APR
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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American Express Membership Rewards

If you’re a business owner, see our article on Amex business credit cards that earn Membership Rewards.

Finally, there are also several Marriott Bonvoy credit cards that can earn you lots of points, and you can later transfer these from the hotel giant to numerous airline rewards programs.

When Should You Search for Award Space?

If you’re flying from the U.S. to Helsinki, it’s regularly possible to find availability on Finnair flights. As with any time you want to book flights in a premium cabin using points, you’ll have better luck if your travel dates are flexible. You’ll also have better luck if you’re willing to position — meaning booking a flight out of Chicago, even if you live in Indianapolis, then getting yourself to Chicago for the award flight you booked with points.

As a general rule, start your search as soon as you know the timeframe within which you’d like to travel. With Finnair’s own award program, we tend to find the best availability when booking far in advance or just 2 or 3 weeks before departure.

What Makes Finnair Business Class a Great Redemption?

While Finnair doesn’t provide the extremely luxurious experience of first class on airlines like Emirates and Etihad, it does provide a comfortable, friendly experience when flying across the Atlantic (or around the world). Here are some of the things we like most about it.

Unique Seat

Finnair’s unique business class pods defy logic in just how comfortable they are. Rather than being constricted to a single direction of movement — forward and backward — guests can lean to the side, crunch into a ball, lean against the walls of the pod, or find other positions to get comfortable during a flight.

These seats don’t feel restrictive like some business products, and you can lounge the way you want while sitting up and then lie down to sleep when you want.

Finnair A350XWB business class middle seats divider — Middle seats on Finnair’s A350 plane.

Onboard Experience

Finnair’s flight crews are known for being friendly and helpful, and the food and beverages during flights are excellent as well. While Finnair doesn’t have onboard chefs for custom orders like some Middle Eastern airlines, its meals are still fresh and flavorful.

Plus, the airline does desserts well — something many airlines don’t. The carrier also has a Finnish tradition on board: blueberry juice.

Finnair A350XWB business class welcome drink — Drinking blueberry juice on a Finnair business class flight from Los Angeles to Helsinki.

Lounges at Helsinki Airport

Flying in Finnair business class gives you access to an airport lounge before departure, even if you don’t have elite status. If you’re flying to Finland, Finnair has agreements with local lounges at airports it serves, providing guests access to lounges from other airlines before departure.

At Helsinki, Finnair has lounges in both the Schengen departures area and the non-Schengen area for long-haul flights. Passengers in business class can access the Finnair Business Lounge, which is large and comfortable. Along with the lounge’s Finnish minimalist design, guests can find a buffet, a stocked bar, showers, and more.

Finnair Lounge Helsinki HEL Non Schengen bar seating blurred — View from the furthest section of the Finnair Business Lounge in Helsinki, looking back at the buffet and bar.

The Platinum Wing is accessed through the same entrance, but it’s more exclusive. Only those with Finnair Platinum and Platinum Lumo status have access, as do those with Oneworld Emerald status.

Guests get premium drinks here, a buffet, sit-down restaurant service, showers, and even a sauna.

Finnair Lounge Helsinki HEL Non Schengen Platinum Wing sauna — The sauna inside the Platinum Wing lounge in Helsinki.

Final Thoughts

Now that Finnair has joined the Avios family, the opportunities for enjoying the airline’s business class have proliferated. If you have the points and miles, there’s little excuse for you not to look into booking a wonderful business class seat to the Nordic country or beyond — and partaking of such Finnish delights as lounge saunas and onboard blueberry juice!