Arctic Lakeland connection: TUI fly Netherlands resumes winter charter flights to Kajaani, Finland

TUI fly Netherlands has officially resumed its winter charter service from Amsterdam to Kajaani, with the first flight of the 2026 season departing today, Friday, January 16. This marks the second year of the programme, which aims to strengthen the international appeal of Finland’s Arctic Lakeland region.

Key Highlights of the 2026 Season:

• Flight Schedule: The program consists of nine weekly flights operating every Friday until mid-March. The service follows a triangular route: Amsterdam – Kajaani – Kuusamo – Amsterdam.

• Growing Demand: Ticket sales have increased by 3% compared to the previous year. To boost visibility, TUI has even themed its physical travel agencies in Utrecht with Arctic Lakeland decor.

• Regional Impact: The flights bring Dutch tourists primarily to the Kajaani, Vuokatti, and Kuhmo areas. Major local hotels, including Hotel Kajanus, Break Sokos Hotel Vuokatti, and Hotel Kalevala, are primary accommodation partners.

• Arctic Experiences: The travel packages focus on traditional winter activities such as husky and snowmobile safaris, cross-country skiing, and fatbike tours, often including essential thermal clothing to cater to Central European travellers.

Strategic Cooperation

The flight connection is supported by the Arctic Lakeland Charter project, a collaborative effort funded by the Municipality of Sotkamo, the Regional Council of Kainuu, and the cities of Kajaani and Kuhmo.

Aija Laukkanen, CEO of Vuokatti Tourist Centre Ltd, noted that the partnership is vital for the region’s accessibility and economy, providing a steady flow of customers for local restaurants and activity providers. TUI’s Paavo Planckaert added that Kajaani has shown great potential as a destination, perfectly complementing TUI’s existing Finnish routes to Kittilä, Kuusamo, and Ivalo.