Finland Ministry proposes ending state funding for regional flights

The Finnish Ministry of Transport and Communications has proposed that the state should cease funding domestic regional flights, arguing that aviation services should be based on market demand. The ministry noted that despite years of subsidies, demand and load factors for regional flights remain low. Currently, the state spends approximately 20.2 million euros annually on regional flight subsidies, while these services also cause Finavia to incur annual losses of roughly 20 million euros.

The proposal suggests that the funding model for Finavia be changed, potentially allowing smaller airports to be separated from the current network, with municipalities or regional associations taking over their funding. The ministry argues that maintaining small airports diverts investment from major hubs essential for international accessibility.

The proposal has sparked political debate. SDP Member of Parliament Timo Suhonen and MP Seppo Eskelinen criticized the move, claiming it would damage regional accessibility, economic life, and employment. Suhonen also raised concerns regarding security of supply and the impact on emergency medical flights. Conversely, MP Marko Kilpi clarified that the statement is a civil service recommendation intended as a basis for future government negotiations, rather than an official proposal from the current Orpo government.