Finavia celebrates the completion of Helsinki Airport's historic development programme 2013–2023. The closing ceremony was held in the South Pier of Helsinki Airport. The event was opened by Finavia's CEO Kimmo Mäki, who emphasised in his speech the importance of investments for the future of Finland.
“It is a great honour to stand here today and announce the closing of the Helsinki Airport Development Programme. At the same time, we have a good opportunity to look to the future. What will the world be like in the coming decades, for which this magnificent effort has been made?”
“The development programme is not only an investment in the airport's services and infrastructure but also an investment in Finland's future. Helsinki Airport is our calling card to the world, and its modernity and functionality signal strong Finnish expertise. Enabling growth has been one of the cornerstones of the development programme. We are now ready to receive 30 million passengers annually, creating opportunities for both tourism and business.
As we celebrate this success, we must also look ahead. The 12-year transport system plan provides a good opportunity for a comprehensive review. In addition, the economic conditions of the sector should be secured so that it can develop and flourish in Finland.
The success of Helsinki Airport is not only the success of the airport, but the success of Finland as a whole. Let us look to the future together and make sure that Helsinki Airport remains a forerunner, and that it is a place to which people want to return to again and again,” Mäki said in his speech.
Minister of Transport and Communications Lulu Ranne gave an address on behalf of the Government to the party audience. Minister Ranne emphasised the importance of developing a sustainable economy and transport system for Finnish society.
Finnair's CEO Topi Manner thanked Finavia for the friendly cooperation over the decades. Helsinki Airport is Finnair's home airport and the development of customer experience is a shared goal.
At the event, Finavia organised a panel discussion on the future of air traffic, tourism and Finland. Taking part in the discussion were former Prime Minister Alexander Stubb, Business Finland's Executive Director Johanna Jäkälä and Finavia's Chairman of the Board Kati Levoranta. The panel was hosted by journalist and newsreader Maija Lehmusvirta.
The event had a warm atmosphere, with musical arrangements of several Finnish songs played by the artist ONEVIOLIN.
Further reading
Helsinki Airport’s development programme has been successfully completed
