Finnair refreshes in-flight dining with sustainability at its heart

Finnair has introduced refreshed menus, simplicity and sustainability at heart, as part of its goal of reducing waste and weight onboard all flights.

Business class passengers on intercontinental flights, will be served a small amuse bouche and a starter, followed by a main meal, dessert and cheese.

Long-haul business class passengers can also opt for oat milk, as the airline’s new dairy free alternative. They also have a choice of three main course options – Benella rainbow trout, a Japanese inspired chicken dish or a plant-based option which celebrates the tastes of India.

Business class passengers also receive a lighter second service, snacks and refreshments – along with a beverage and wine selection.

Many of the airline’s dishes on long-haul flights take inspiration from Scandinavia’s traditional flavours – with a Japanese twist – as the airline makes the most from flavours featured in the destinations they fly to.

Maarit Keränen, Finnair Head of Inflight Food and Beverage Concept, said: “We’re really excited to reveal our refreshed in-flight menu and we’ve found that a little twist of Japanese cuisine works well with the Scandinavian flavours.

“Sustainability is a key focus for us, which is why we’ve also introduced wooden cutlery onboard and streamlined our service offering to reduce the amount of waste onboard.

“We’ve already halved the amount of food waste in our catering/kitchen operations and have set ourselves a new goal to reduce food waste by a further 30%.”

Finnair customers travelling in business class on European flights are offered a sandwich, fresh cold meal with bread, or a three-course meal inspired by Nordic flavours – along with a selection of beverages.

The Finnish flag carrier has also introduced a set menu accompanied by a complimentary glass of wine or beer to all economy class customers on intercontinental flights, as the Nordic airline looks to minimise food waste on each flight.

Customers travelling in economy class on European flights are served a glass of Finnair’s famous blueberry juice with new wooden birch cutlery and paper cups accompanying the in-flight service.

The Finnish flag carrier focuses on local ingredients and on return flights from long-haul destinations all meals are made locally.

As well as the refreshed menu, Finnair has also brought back its Nordic Kitchen on board menu, which means passengers can now buy drinks and snacks onboard.