Eric Rosen Reviews Finnair Airbus a350 Cabin Design and Seating

In a column for The Points Guy published on Sunday writer Eric Rosen argues that Finnair sets a distinct standard for long-haul cabin design through its unique Nordic features and innovative seating on Airbus A350 routes.

The review details Rosen’s recent flights from Los Angeles to Helsinki and back aboard the airline’s long-haul fleet. The experience centers on the carrier’s $230 million, multiyear investment in Collins Aerospace-designed AirLounge seats, which departed from traditional industry trends when introduced in 2022.

“The AirLounge is a complete contrast,” Rosen writes, describing a contoured seat shell with a padded interior that operates more like a bench than a standard reclining chair. Passengers lift a legrest via an armrest button to connect with an ottoman rather than lowering a seatback into a lie-flat bed.

Rosen notes that the design provides extra width for sitting cross-legged and eliminates bulky motorized machinery.

Design details extend to light birch-woodgrain slide-out tray tables and an armrest wireless charging pad. Additional power sources and storage compartments for laptops sit near floor level.

Cabin lighting on the Airbus A350 mimics the northern lights after meal service, shifting through blue, green, yellow, and magenta tones. Amenities include recycled polyester amenity kits and Kalasääski-printed duvets from Helsinki design house Marimekko.

Tableware features the Kuulas line created by Harri Koskinen alongside legacy Ultima Thule glassware designed by Tapio Wirkkala in 1968. Meal service features Nordic-inspired dishes such as braised beef short rib and Finnish fish paired with cloudberry wine.

Travelers can book the product using partner mileage currencies. American Airlines AAdvantage requires 57,500 miles each way plus taxes and fees ranging from $5 to $50, while Alaska Airlines charges 55,000 to 70,000 Atmos Rewards points plus $26 to $60.