A united front for smoother and safer travel
A broad coalition of aviation sector players and authorities – including Traficom, Finavia, Finnair, Norra, Norwegian, Airpro, Aviator, the Police, Border Guard, Customs, Fintraffic, and IATA – have joined forces in the “Switch Yourself to Flight Mode” campaign. The goal is to remind everyone that good behaviour, mutual respect, and cooperation make flying more enjoyable and safer for all.
At Finavia, we are committed to ensuring that our airports offer a safe and pleasant environment for both passengers and staff. All our airports follow common safety protocols, and our personnel are well-equipped to handle even the most challenging situations.
Thousands of professionals work at our airports every day to manage passenger flows and keep the travel chain running smoothly. Our joint campaign also supports their work by highlighting how each passenger’s behaviour contributes to the overall travel experience.
“Our airports are staffed with skilled professionals who support passengers at every stage of their journey – from check-in to security control to boarding. Travelling should be enjoyable, and if you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for help,” says Hanna Hämäläinen, Head of Passenger Services at Helsinki Airport.
Why is this campaign important?
Unruly behaviour in air travel is a growing concern globally. It can take many forms – intoxication, threatening behaviour, ignoring rules, or refusing to follow crew instructions. In the most serious cases, it can delay flights or compromise safety on the ground and in the air.
At airports, unruly behaviour often occurs before boarding – at security control, gates, or in waiting areas. It places a burden on staff, affects fellow passengers, and breaks the shared rules that ensure a safe and efficient travel experience.
In aviation, there is zero tolerance for unruly behaviour. Every incident is reported and may result in action such as intervention by authorities, removal from the aircraft, a written warning, or a travel ban – the length of which depends on the severity of the incident. Passengers may also face liability for damages or legal consequences under aviation law.
What does "Switch Yourself to Flight Mode" mean?
The campaign’s core message is simple but powerful:
- Prepare for your journey in advance – Familiarize yourself with the airline and airport instructions and travel tips beforehand. Allow enough time at the airport and pack according to guidelines – last-minute stress increases risk.
- Respect staff and fellow passengers – Kindness goes a long way.
- Follow the rules – Airport and airline regulations exist to ensure safe and smooth travel.
- Limit alcohol consumption – Flying while intoxicated is prohibited and creates risks and discomfort for the passenger and others.
Let’s keep travelling enjoyable – together
Finavia is proud to play a role in building a positive and responsible travel culture. The campaign's messages are visible throughout our airports, in digital channels, and in passenger communications.
“A safe and pleasant travel experience doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through daily cooperation – between passengers, staff, and authorities,” Hämäläinen concludes.
Read more about the campaign: Finnish Transportation and Communication Agency Traficom's website
