Finnair Business Class Review 2025: Is It Worth It? Seats, Service & What’s New

Flying business class can be a major splurge—but when the product delivers, it can turn a long journey into a surprisingly pleasant experience. Finnair has been getting a lot of attention recently for its revamped long-haul business class cabin, and in 2025 many of its innovations are fully rolled out. So how does it stack up? Below, I’ll walk you through what’s new, how the comfort and service really feel, the trade-offs, and whether the price premium is justified.

What’s New in Finnair Business Class

Finnair has made several bold changes recently. These are not just incremental updates: many are redesigns from the ground up. Here are the key new features as of 2025:

Cabin redesign & “AirLounge” seat: Finnair’s new long-haul cabin features the Collins’ AirLounge seat. It uses a fixed contoured shell, rather than the older reclining mechanism. The idea is to amplify personal space and offer better privacy. finnair.com+3finnair.com+3businessclass.com+3
Full-flat bed with mattress and premium textiles: The AirLounge seat transforms into a full-flat bed, equipped with a mattress pad, Marimekko design textiles & cushions. This enhances sleep comfort. finnair.com+2businessclass.com+2
Enhanced IFE (In-Flight Entertainment): All long-haul business class aircraft are now equipped with 18-inch screens, upgraded entertainment options, and improved user interfaces. Wireless and wired charging (USB-A + USB-C + PC power) are standard, plus personal reading lights. Onboard Hospitality Awards+3finnair.com+3businessclass.com+3
Nordic design & dining experience: Finnair has leaned into its Finnish & Nordic heritage. Chinaware by Iittala, soft furnishings by Marimekko, menus with Nordic influences, multi-course dining (up to six courses on long-haul) and “light bites” are part of the package. finnair.com+3finnair.com+3Business Traveller+3
Premium Economy Class: While not Business Class per se, the introduction of premium economy gives a more affordable buffer between economy and business. The seating has improved pitch, leg rest, recline, and better amenities. One Mile at a Time+2finnair.com+2

All in all, Finnair has pushed forward with a clear strategy: privacy, comfort, and design coherence, especially for long-hauls.

Seats & Comfort: Sitting, Sleeping, Working

Let’s break down what the actual in-seat experience is like, because that’s often the make-or-break for business class.

Seat configuration & privacy

Finnair’s long-haul fleet (A350-900 and A330-300) are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, giving every passenger direct aisle access. That means no “stepping over” neighbors. businessclass.com+2Business Travel News+2
Center seats have full-height retractable dividers, which help when you’re traveling alone but want privacy—or when you want to travel with someone and lower it. businessclass.com+1

The non-reclining “shell” design

The AirLounge seat is unique in that it does not recline in the traditional sense; instead, the fixed shell plus a mattress pad and adjustable footrest/leg rest let you slide into a lie-flat position. There’s no moving back-rest mechanism. Some reviewers found it surprisingly comfortable, others noted trade-offs (especially for side-sleepers and during “in-between” positions). businessclass.com+1
For sleeping, most passengers report that once in full bed mode, the mattress pad plus high-quality bedding (pillows, blankets) do a solid job. For sitting upright or lounging, the shell gives nice posture support and good isolation from aisle noise. businessclass.com+1

Working & storage

Each seat has good stowage: side compartments, shelves for small items, space for chargers, opening trays that allow a laptop to be used comfortably. businessclass.com+1
Power outlets are comprehensive: USB-A, USB-C, and standard PC power sockets. Wireless charging is also built in at some seats. finnair.com+1

Sleep comfort & ambient features

Mood lighting has been upgraded. Finnair offers ambient lighting with multiple scenarios (including designs inspired by Northern Lights), intended to help reduce the harsh glare of cabin lights at night. Business Traveller+1
Noise control has been improved: the shell design, cabin insulation, and quality headphones (with active noise cancellation) help reduce cabin noise perceptibly. finnair.com+1

Service, Dining & Amenities

No matter how great the seat, service and food differentiate the merely good from the exceptional.

Dining

On long-haul flights, Finnair offers multi-course meals in business class. Up to six courses, including starters, mains, sides, dessert, even cheese courses. Menus are inspired by Northern / Finnish cuisine, with international touches. finnair.com+2Business Traveller+2
Presentation matters: Finnish design elements such as Iittala tableware and Marimekko textiles are used, adding that extra touch of elegance. finnair.com+1
Light bites are served between main meals. On some newer cabins you’ll see the option to dine on demand (or at least with more flexibility) rather than being strictly schedule-bound. finnair.com

Amenities & Extras

Amenity kits include quality items (toothbrush, skincare etc.), soft bedding, pillows and blankets. The design is Nordic and premium. businessclass.com+1
Inflights entertainment (IFE) is strong: large screens, good choice of content, often multiple languages. Plus, Finnair provides WiFi (free for certain fare classes / loyal customers for part of the flight). finnair.com+1
Lounges & airport service: Business Class ticket holders (depending on fare class) get priority check-in, security, boarding, and access to Finnair lounges. Helsinki Airport is well-designed for connections. finnair.com+2finnair.com+2

Pros: What Finnair Business Class Does Very Well

From what’s public and from passenger reviews, here are several strong positives:

Privacy & Space – The shell design with direct aisle access, and dividers in the center seats, give excellent personal space. Especially appreciated on long overnight flights.
Stylish design & ambiance – The Nordic aesthetic (Marimekko, Iittala, mood lighting) gives travelers a coherent experience: it feels less like a mass-produced cabin and more like a premium, calming environment.
Effective sleep setup – Despite the non-traditional non-recline seat, many travelers find that when in bed mode, the comfort is excellent. The mattress pad plus good bedding help.
Strong food & presentation – The multi-course meals, with attention to local flavors, tableware, and presentation, bring a “fine dining in the sky” vibe.
Good tech & amenities – Power everywhere, charging, good IFE, WiFi for certain classes or status holders, solid storage. These small touches matter.
Airport convenience – Helsinki is a strong nexus, Finnair’s priority services, lounges, and connection schedules are competitive.

Cons & Trade-Offs: What You Might Dislike

No product is perfect, so here are the drawbacks, or minors to keep in mind:

Non-reclining seat twist: Just because the AirLounge seat becomes full-flat doesn’t mean every seating position in between is ideal. For side sleepers or when you’re lounging (not sleeping or sitting), finding a comfortable mid position can be tricky. Some reviews point out that the footwell in bed mode is a bit tight for side sleepers. Reddit+1
Potential cost premium: Business Class fares remain expensive, particularly on long-haul. Whether the upgrade is “worth it” often depends on how much you value privacy, comfort, and service.
Consistency across fleet: While many long-haul Finnair aircraft have the new cabins, older aircraft (or certain short-haul and regional routes) may still have older seats and fewer amenities. So you’ll want to check aircraft type / review photos before booking. One Mile at a Time+2businessclass.com+2
“Unseen” inconveniences: Sometimes tray tables or entertainment screens may not orient perfectly for every sleeping or work position; also, some travelers have mentioned small limitations in arm rests or table layout when the seat is in bed mode.
WiFi limitations: Complimentary internet access is usually limited (for example, one hour for many fare types or status tiers). If you need full-flight connectivity, you may need to pay. finnair.com+1

Comparisons: Finnair vs Other Airlines

How does Finnair stack up to other business class offerings in 2025 (especially for Europe-Asia / transatlantic)?

Many flagship carriers offer sliding doors, more fully enclosed pods. Finnair’s shell design has excellent privacy but is still “open” compared to those with full doors.
In terms of food and design, Finnair’s Nordic approach is unique. If you are someone who values minimalist elegance, natural materials and thoughtful presentation, they likely have the upper hand over some airlines with more traditional “luxury” but less character.
For those who prioritize “seat fully reclinable in every mode,” carriers like Singapore Airlines, Qatar, Emirates may still have a slight edge. But Finnair’s trade-offs (non-reclining mid modes) are balanced by comfort, privacy and good bed mode.

So, Is It Worth It in 2025?

Short answer: Yes—for many people. But whether you should pay for it depends on what you value most.

If you:

Fly long-haul overnight and need good sleep
Appreciate privacy and design (not just showy features)
Want excellent food, service, and a smoother airport experience
Can get business class fare at reasonable prices, or via miles / upgrades

…then Finnair’s Business Class is absolutely worth considering.

If you:

Are very price sensitive
Do mostly daytime or short flights
Don’t mind older cabins / fewer amenities so long as you can stretch out

…then Premium Economy (new, improved) or even a high-end economy may deliver enough value for you.

Tips to Get the Best Value from Finnair Business

If you decide to go for it, here are some smart tricks and advice to make sure you maximize what you get:

Check aircraft type & cabin version before booking. Use seat maps, photos & reviews to ensure it’s the new cabin.
Book via miles or upgrade paths: Sometimes upgrading from Premium Economy or via loyalty programs is far cheaper than paying full fare.
Choose window seats (for views and privacy), unless you travel with someone and prefer center seats with lowered divider.
Fly during off-peak when business fares may be discounted. Look out for sales.
Use status perks: If you have Finnair Plus Gold/Platinum or OneWorld equivalent, you often get lounge access, priority services, maybe even internet access.

Final Verdict: For Whom and When It’s Truly Worth It

Here’s a quick breakdown of scenarios when Finnair Business Class in 2025 is likely worth the premium, and when you might be better off with alternatives.

If you are…	Finnair Business is likely worth it if you…	You might opt for something else if…
Long-haul / overnight flyer	Need decent sleep + rest between arrival times	Travel short daytime flights where sleep matters less
Design / experience lover	Value the ambiance, artwork, Nordic aesthetic, presentation	Just want function over form
Privacy/space seeker	Want direct aisle access + personal shell + good separation	Don’t mind some trade-offs in privacy or older cabins
Budget conscious / points user	Can redeem miles or catch a discount	Refuse to pay more than a certain premium over economy or Premium Economy

Conclusion

In 2025, Finnair’s revamped Business Class is among the stronger offerings in the long-haul market. It doesn’t have every luxury under the sun, but it delivers where it counts: comfort, design, food, privacy, and atmosphere. For many travelers, especially those paying for sleep, prestige, or a smoother travel experience, it is worth the money.

If you’ve got the budget (or the miles), and you’re flying long distance or overnight, Finnair Business Class is a solid choice. If not, their new Premium Economy is looking like a very strong runner-up.