Finland shuts section of southern airspace and sea lanes near Russia over drone threat
Finland temporarily closes airspace and sea lanes near Russian border over drone threat
EU Entry/Exit System enters day-to-day use – what it means for travellers to Finland
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Fresh report details cumulative impact of Finnair labour strife on 260,000 travellers
A new AK&M bulletin published 28 July reveals that Finnair’s sporadic strikes have disrupted 260,000 passengers since June, with 271 flight cancellations around the 17–20 June work stoppage alone. Ongoing wage disputes mean further walkouts remain possible, so businesses should build contingencies for travel and cargo transiting Helsinki.
Rally Finland 2026: Temporary restricted airspace EFR659 announced for 30 July – 2 August
Fintraffic AIS has established Restricted Area EFR659 for 30 July–2 August to protect the Rally Finland stages around Jyväskylä. Only authorised flights may enter, and business-aviation crews must re-route or pre-register. The measure safeguards low-level helicopter and drone operations linked to the world-famous motorsport event.
Rally Finland to trigger four-day no-fly zone over Jyväskylä region
AIP Supplement 112/2026 creates a temporary restricted area for Rally Finland from 30 July–2 August, barring most flights and all drones over the stages near Jyväskylä. Business-aviation and cargo operators must reroute or seek special clearance, while travel planners should expect last-minute itinerary changes.
Laser shows near Helsinki prompt night-time flight restrictions 29 July – 1 August
NOTAMs published on 28 July create laser-hazard zones in Espoo from 29 July to 1 August, plus a restricted area on 31 July–1 August. Low-level helicopter and drone flights near Helsinki must avoid the sectors or obtain permission, which could affect VIP transfers and last-mile UAV deliveries.
EU clarifies exemptions as Entry/Exit System reaches 100-day milestone
The European Commission published detailed guidance on 27 July 2026 explaining which travellers are exempt from biometric registration under the Schengen Entry/Exit System. For Finland, long-stay visa holders, residence-permit holders and certain family members will still be processed manually, easing concerns about delays at Helsinki Airport. The clarification helps companies manage cross-border staff movements while Finnish authorities continue rolling out EES infrastructure.