Skip navigation

Start your journey at the airport – in a lounge

Article published
28.5.2026 at 08:00
Lounge
Travel
Travel has changed in recent years – more and more passengers want to begin their journey calmly and smoothly already at the airport. Globally, demand for lounge services has grown significantly, as travellers increasingly value comfort, time management and the opportunity to relax or focus before their flight.

The use of airport lounges is rising rapidly worldwide. The market is growing at a double-digit rate, and, for example, lounge access services have grown by more than 16% annually in recent years. At the same time, lounge usage has expanded quickly: over half of frequent travellers already use lounges, and visit numbers have increased by more than 100% in just a few years. A key reason behind this growth is that lounges are no longer just a privilege for business travellers, but a service accessible to a much wider group of passengers.

Internationally, the growing popularity of lounge services reflects a broader shift in travel: the airport is increasingly becoming part of the journey itself, rather than just a transit point. At Helsinki Airport, lounges offer the opportunity to focus on what matters before departure – whether that means finishing work, easing into holiday mode, or enjoying a smooth start together with loved ones.

A variety of lounges for different travel needs

Helsinki Airport offers several lounge options in both Schengen and non-Schengen areas, catering to a wide range of traveller needs. Access is available to frequent flyers and members of airline loyalty programmes, and most lounges can also be entered by purchasing a one-time pass.

Lounges in the Schengen departure area:

  • Finnair Lounge Gate 21, 3rd floor
    Scandinavian harmony, high-quality dining and modern workspaces create a calm environment for both relaxation and productive work.
  • OP Lounge by Aspire Gate 22, 3rd floor
    The newest addition complements the Schengen lounge offering with its hotel-style finish. It features freshly prepared dishes by a chef, private and quiet workspaces, and the option to refresh in a shower before or between flights.
  • Aspire Lounges Gates 13 and 27
    Comfortable and bright spaces, ideal for couples and friends who want to elevate their travel experience beyond the everyday.

Lounges in the non-Schengen departure area:

Lounges in the non-Schengen area provide high-quality spaces for long-haul passengers and those transferring between flights.

  • Finnair Lounge Gate 52
    Here, travellers encounter genuine luxury: quiet surroundings, dedicated areas for work and rest, high-quality dining, and even a Finnish sauna.
  • Plaza Premium Lounge – Gate 40
    A cosy and versatile option for all travellers – including families, whose journey becomes smoother thanks to play areas, comfortable interiors and shower facilities.

What you can expect from Helsinki Airport lounges:

  • Peace and space: room to sit, relax and enjoy your surroundings
  • Food and drinks: varied buffet options throughout the day and high-quality beverages
  • Work facilities: quiet workstations and spaces designed for focus
  • Refreshment: shower facilities and even a sauna
  • Family-friendly areas: play zones and spacious seating areas.

Explore the lounge selection at Helsinki Airport