Planning to make your journey more comfortable? A Finnair upgrade can give you access to extra legroom, premium dining, priority airport services, lounge access (where applicable), and lie-flat seats on eligible long-haul flights. Whether you’re considering a cash upgrade, redeeming Avios, or using Finnair Plus upgrade benefits, understanding how each option works can help you choose the one that offers the best value.
This guide explains the latest Finnair upgrade policy, estimated upgrade costs, eligibility requirements, booking methods, refund rules, and practical tips to improve your chances of securing a Premium Economy or Business Class seat.
Quick Takeaway:
If your ticket is eligible, Finnair generally allows upgrades using cash, Avios, or eligible upgrade benefits. The best option depends on your fare type, available upgrade inventory, travel route, and whether you already have Avios in your account.
Also Read: Finnair Date Change
Finnair Upgrade Options
Depending on your original ticket and available upgrade inventory, Finnair offers several cabin upgrade options.
Passengers may upgrade from:
- Economy → Premium Economy
- Economy → Business Class
- Premium Economy → Business Class
The availability of each upgrade depends on your route, cabin configuration, fare eligibility, and seat availability at the time you request the upgrade.
Important Finnair Upgrade Rules
Before requesting a cabin upgrade, keep these important policy points in mind:
- Your ticket generally must begin with 105 to request an upgrade through Finnair’s website or mobile app.
- Eligible tickets may be upgraded even if the original fare itself isn’t changeable.
- Tickets originally purchased using only Avios or a combination of Avios and cash generally aren’t eligible for further upgrades.
- Upgrade availability is limited and isn’t guaranteed, even if seats remain available for purchase.
- Upgrade pricing varies depending on route, travel date, demand, and cabin availability.
Checking your eligibility before making travel plans can save time and help you compare available upgrade options more effectively.
Is a Finnair Upgrade Worth It?
The answer depends on your route, travel purpose, and upgrade price.
For shorter European flights, upgrading to Business Class may primarily provide benefits such as priority services, lounge access (where included), and enhanced onboard service. While valuable for some travelers, the difference may be less noticeable compared to long-haul routes.
For overnight or long-haul flights between Europe, North America, and Asia, a Business Class upgrade often delivers significantly more comfort through lie-flat seats, upgraded dining, larger entertainment screens, and additional personal space.
Premium Economy can also be a practical middle ground if you want extra comfort without paying the full Business Class fare.
A Finnair upgrade may be worthwhile if you:
- You’re traveling on an overnight flight.
- You have a long connection after arrival.
- You already have enough Avios for redemption.
- A discounted cash upgrade is available.
- You’re traveling for business and want a quieter cabin experience.
On the other hand, paying a premium for a short daytime flight may not always provide the same overall value.
Finnair Upgrade Methods
Finnair currently offers three primary ways to upgrade your flight:
- Cash Upgrade
- Avios Upgrade
- Finnair Plus Upgrade Benefits
Each method works differently and may suit different types of travelers.
Finnair Cash Upgrade
A cash upgrade is one of the simplest ways to move to a higher cabin without purchasing a new ticket.
Eligible passengers can usually purchase available upgrades beginning approximately 30 days before departure, subject to availability. Upgrade prices are dynamic, meaning the amount varies based on several factors, including:
- Route
- Travel season
- Demand
- Remaining premium seats
- Original fare purchased
Because pricing changes frequently, checking your booking regularly may help you find a more favorable upgrade offer.
How Much Does a Finnair Cash Upgrade Cost?
There isn’t one fixed price for every flight.
For many short-haul European routes, Business Class upgrades may start around $110, while long-haul Business upgrades can exceed $1,000, depending on availability and demand.
Remember that these figures are estimates and can vary considerably between routes.
Cash Upgrade Deadlines
Upgrade requests usually remain available until shortly before departure, although deadlines differ depending on the route.
Helsinki Departures
Passengers departing from Helsinki can generally purchase eligible cash upgrades until approximately 3 hours before departure.
European Flights
For many European routes, upgrades are generally available until around 24 hours before departure.
North America and Asia Flights
Passengers traveling on many long-haul routes can typically request a cash upgrade up to 8 hours before departure, subject to availability.
If you’re unsure whether your reservation still qualifies for an upgrade or need assistance comparing available options, Contact travel support at +1-844-522-6968 for help with the process.
Finnair Avios Upgrade
Finnair Plus now uses Avios, allowing members to redeem points for cabin upgrades on eligible flights.
One advantage of Avios is that they’re also used by several other oneworld airlines, making them more flexible than the previous Finnair Plus points system.
Typical long-haul upgrade requirements include:
|
Upgrade Route |
Typical Avios Required* |
|
Economy → Premium Economy |
17,000 Avios |
| Economy → Business Class |
40,000 Avios |
| Premium Economy → Business |
23,000 Avios |
Actual requirements may vary depending on route and applicable taxes or carrier rules.
Does Avios Pricing Change Like Cash Upgrades?
Unlike dynamic cash pricing, Avios upgrade pricing generally follows fixed redemption levels.
This means the number of Avios required usually remains the same regardless of when you book, although availability may become more limited closer to departure.
Phone Booking Fee
Passengers requesting an Avios upgrade through customer service should note that Finnair generally deducts an additional 1,000 Avios for assisted bookings.
If possible, booking online can help avoid this additional deduction.
Avios Can Offer Better Value
If you already collect Avios through Finnair Plus or another participating oneworld airline, redeeming points for a Business Class upgrade may provide better overall value than paying cash—especially on longer international routes where premium cabin prices are substantially higher.
Finnair Plus Upgrade Benefits
Elite Finnair Plus members receive upgrade benefits that can be used on eligible flights.
The number of available upgrade vouchers depends on membership status and qualification level.
Finnair Plus Gold
Eligible Gold members generally receive four one-way upgrade vouchers each membership year.
These vouchers may be used on qualifying short-haul or long-haul flights according to program rules.
Finnair Plus Platinum
Platinum members receive additional upgrade benefits based on earned tier points and membership level.
Platinum Lumo
Among Finnair Plus membership tiers, Platinum Lumo members receive the highest level of upgrade benefits and voucher availability.
Always review the latest membership terms before redeeming upgrade benefits, as program rules may change over time.
Cash vs Avios: Which Upgrade Option Is Better?
Choosing between cash and Avios depends on your individual situation.
|
Option |
Best For |
|
Cash Upgrade |
Travelers without enough Avios |
| Avios Upgrade |
Frequent flyers with sufficient points |
| Upgrade Benefits |
Eligible Finnair Plus elite members |
If you’re paying out of pocket, compare the upgrade price with the cost of purchasing a higher cabin outright. Sometimes the difference is smaller than expected, while other times an upgrade provides excellent value.
Best Time to Upgrade Your Finnair Flight
Although no upgrade is guaranteed, timing can influence both availability and price.
A good strategy is to:
- Check your booking once cash upgrades become available.
- Monitor availability periodically before departure.
- Redeem Avios early if award inventory opens.
- Avoid waiting until the final few hours unless you’re comfortable with limited availability.
Traveling during off-peak seasons may also improve your chances of finding available premium cabin upgrades.
How to Improve Your Upgrade Chances
While upgrades always depend on availability, these practical steps may improve your chances:
- Verify your ticket is eligible before requesting an upgrade.
- Keep enough Avios in your account if planning to redeem points.
- Monitor your booking regularly, as upgrade inventory may change.
- Submit your request before published upgrade deadlines.
- Consider upgrading earlier during busy holiday travel periods when premium cabins fill more quickly.
Small planning decisions often make a significant difference when premium cabin inventory is limited.
How to Book a Finnair Upgrade
Passengers can request an eligible Finnair upgrade through the airline’s website, mobile app, customer service, or at the airport (subject to availability). The method you choose depends on your ticket eligibility, preferred payment option, and how close you are to departure.
Upgrade Your Finnair Flight Online
Booking online is often the quickest way to check upgrade availability and compare available options.
Steps to upgrade online
- Visit the Finnair website or open the mobile app.
- Access your booking using your booking reference and last name.
- Check whether Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades are available.
- Choose your preferred cabin.
- Pay using cash, Avios, or eligible upgrade benefits (if available).
- Review your updated itinerary and confirmation email.
Online booking also helps you avoid the additional Avios deduction that generally applies to phone-assisted Avios upgrade requests.
Upgrade Through Customer Service
Passengers who need assistance understanding available upgrade options or completing the process can contact customer support.
During the call, you’ll typically need:
- Booking reference
- Passenger name
- Preferred cabin
- Payment method (cash, Avios, or eligible benefits)
If you’re looking for guidance about available upgrade options or need help understanding your booking before requesting an upgrade, travel Support is available at +1-844-522-6968
Note: Phone-assisted Avios upgrade requests may include an additional 1,000 Avios service deduction according to Finnair’s policy.
Can I Upgrade at the Airport?
Yes, airport upgrades may be available if premium seats remain unsold before departure.
However, availability is never guaranteed.
Airport upgrades can be a convenient last-minute option, but they may not always include every benefit that would have been available through an earlier confirmed upgrade. Availability, pricing, and included services depend on the flight and the airline’s current policies.
If upgrading is important for your trip, requesting it before arriving at the airport is generally the safer approach.
Before You Upgrade: A Quick Checklist
Before confirming your cabin upgrade, take a few moments to review these points:
✅ Is your ticket eligible for an upgrade?
✅ Are upgrade seats currently available?
✅ Do you have enough Avios if redeeming points?
✅ Have you checked the applicable upgrade deadline?
✅ Have you compared the upgrade cost with purchasing a higher cabin fare directly?
A quick review can help you choose the most cost-effective option.
Common Finnair Upgrade Mistakes to Avoid
Many passengers miss upgrade opportunities simply because they overlook important details.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Waiting Until the Last Minute
Popular long-haul routes can sell out quickly, leaving little or no upgrade availability close to departure.
Assuming Every Ticket Can Be Upgraded
Not every fare qualifies for every upgrade method. Always confirm your ticket eligibility before planning an upgrade.
Ignoring Upgrade Deadlines
Each route has different upgrade cut-off times. Missing the deadline may remove your upgrade options entirely.
Forgetting About Additional Avios Charges
Phone-assisted Avios upgrades generally require an extra 1,000 Avios compared with booking online.
Not Comparing Cash vs Avios
Sometimes using Avios offers better value than paying cash, while in other cases a discounted cash offer may be the smarter choice.
When Are Upgrades Usually Not Available?
Even eligible passengers may occasionally find that no upgrades are offered.
This can happen when:
- Business Class or Premium Economy is already fully booked.
- Upgrade inventory has not been released.
- Your fare doesn’t qualify.
- The upgrade request is made after the deadline.
- Operational changes affect seat availability.
If an upgrade isn’t currently available, checking your booking again later may sometimes reveal newly released inventory, although availability is never guaranteed.
Economy vs Premium Economy vs Business
Understanding what each cabin typically offers can help you decide whether upgrading is worthwhile.
|
Feature |
Economy | Premium Economy | Business |
|
Seat Comfort |
Standard | More legroom and wider seating | Lie-flat seat on eligible long-haul flights |
|
Dining |
Standard meal service | Enhanced meal experience | Premium dining |
| Priority Boarding | Usually No | May vary |
Yes |
| Lounge Access | No | Usually No |
Included where applicable |
| Privacy | Standard | Improved |
Highest |
Actual onboard services vary depending on aircraft type and route.
Finnair Upgrade Refund Policy
Refund eligibility depends on the upgrade method used.
Cash Upgrade Refunds
Passengers who cancel an eligible cash upgrade 24 hours or more before departure may qualify for a refund according to Finnair’s applicable policies.
Generally, cash upgrades canceled within 24 hours of departure are not refundable.
Always review the fare conditions attached to your booking before requesting cancellation.
Avios Upgrade Refunds
If an eligible Avios upgrade is canceled before departure, Finnair generally returns the redeemed Avios according to its current policy.
Refund processing times may vary depending on the payment method and account used.
Are Upgrade Benefits Refunded?
Eligible upgrade benefits are generally returned if the qualifying upgrade is canceled before departure.
However, passengers who fail to travel without canceling (a no-show) generally do not receive a refund or restoration of their upgrade benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I upgrade my Finnair flight?
You can request an eligible upgrade through the Finnair website, mobile app, customer service, or at the airport, subject to seat availability and ticket eligibility.
Can I upgrade from Economy to Business Class?
Yes. Eligible Economy tickets may be upgraded to Business Class if upgrade inventory is available and the applicable requirements are met.
How much does a Finnair upgrade cost?
Cash upgrade prices vary depending on your route, travel date, demand, and available seats. Short-haul upgrades may start around $110, while long-haul Business Class upgrades can cost significantly more.
Can I upgrade to Premium Economy?
Yes. Eligible Economy passengers may request a Premium Economy upgrade on flights where that cabin is available.
Can I use Avios to upgrade my flight?
Yes. Finnair allows eligible passengers to redeem Avios for available cabin upgrades, subject to upgrade inventory and program rules.
Does upgrading include lounge access?
Business Class upgrades generally include the services associated with the upgraded cabin where applicable, including lounge access on eligible flights. Benefits may vary depending on the route and airport.
Can I upgrade after checking in?
Depending on seat availability and the applicable deadline for your route, upgrades may still be available after check-in. However, waiting until the last minute may reduce your options.
Can only one passenger in my booking be upgraded?
This depends on the booking and upgrade availability. In some cases, individual passengers within the same reservation may be upgraded separately if permitted by the airline’s policy.
What happens if my upgraded flight is changed?
If Finnair changes your itinerary, your upgrade is generally handled according to the airline’s rebooking and disruption policies.
Also Read: Finnair Manage Booking
Conclusion
A Finnair upgrade can be an excellent way to make your trip more comfortable, especially on longer international flights where Premium Economy and Business Class offer meaningful improvements in seating, dining, and onboard experience. Whether you choose a cash upgrade, redeem Avios, or use Finnair Plus upgrade benefits, comparing your options before departure can help you get the best value.
The key is to check your ticket eligibility early, monitor upgrade availability, understand the applicable deadlines, and choose the option that best fits your travel plans. With a little planning, upgrading your Finnair flight can be a worthwhile investment in a smoother and more enjoyable journey.
