Peak December Crowds Expected at Helsinki Airport as Holiday Travel Builds

December is once again shaping up to be one of the busiest months at Helsinki Airport, with steady passenger flows expected throughout the week. Because Christmas Eve falls on a Wednesday this year, travel will not be concentrated in a single weekend. Finavia urges passengers to arrive well in advance, especially during the heaviest hours between 06:00–09:00 and 15:00–19:00, and to follow airline guidance closely.

Finavia is offering a set of helpful reminders to make getting through the terminal a bit easier when the airport is at its busiest:

• Follow your airline’s check-in timing and watch for updates.
• Pre-book parking, with P5 offering a covered walkway to the terminal.
• Check predicted security queue times on Finavia’s website.
• Use the MyFlight service to check your gate, see which restaurants are open, and move around the terminal more easily.

Packing correctly can also prevent delays at security or check-in. Essential reminders include:

• Review the hand baggage rules on Finavia’s website.
• Place Christmas foods, casseroles, jams, and preserves in checked baggage.
• Check your airline’s rules for carrying skis or snowboards, as they can differ.
• Never pack fireworks, sparklers, or flammable items; Finavia’s search tool helps verify restrictions.

With December bringing a full flight programme, many well-liked winter spots are now easier to access through Helsinki. Travellers heading to Lapland’s ski slopes, Arctic excursions, or European Christmas markets will benefit from the airport’s broad network of connections. The festive atmosphere inside the terminal, from seasonal menus to Santa’s daily visits between 14–23 December, adds another layer of appeal before journeys continue onward.

This year’s peak season underlines how much smoother December travel becomes with a bit of planning. Those who check queues in advance, secure parking early, and give themselves extra time are likely to move through Helsinki Airport without pressure. Despite the busy period, the strong mix of festive touches and practical services helps turn a high-traffic month into a more relaxed start to the holidays.