New routes will go from the UK to a snowy bucket list destination this winter

Sarra Gray
Thu, 26 Mar 2026 07:52:09 +0000

British travellers looking for a winter escape will soon have a new option, as Air Baltic launches direct services from London Gatwick and Manchester to Kuusamo in Finnish Lapland.

The new routes are set to take off on December 13, 2026, with flights running every Sunday through to March 28, 2027.

Kuusamo is becoming increasingly popular with visitors looking for snowy landscapes and winter activities in Lapland. The Finnish destination offers a gateway to some of the most stunning Nordic scenery in Europe.

Passengers will fly on an Airbus A220-300, a comfortable choice for the journey north featuring 148 seats.

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The Sunday-only schedule means travellers can enjoy a full week in Lapland before heading home.

Air Baltic isn't just connecting the UK to this winter wonderland, however. The carrier is also rolling out services to Kuusamo from three other European cities at the same time.

Flights from Berlin, Hamburg and Riga will all begin at the same time, giving holidaymakers across the continent easy access to Finnish Lapland.

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VP network management at Air Baltic, Mantas Vrubliauskas, said: "We are pleased to introduce direct flights between five European cities from three different countries to Kuusamo, further strengthening connectivity between the Baltics, Europe, the UK and Northern Finland.

"Kuusamo is an increasingly popular destination for winter tourism, offering excellent skiing opportunities and unique Nordic nature.

"Together with our existing route to Kittilä, these additions will provide our customers in Latvia, Germany and the United Kingdom with even more choices when planning winter holidays in Lapland."

This comes as Jet2 has also unveiled a new Greek destination will be added to its programme for summer 2027, for the first time.

The airline is adding Thassos to its summer programme for 2027, with flights departing from Birmingham, Manchester and London Stansted.

Sometimes called the 'Emerald Isle of the Aegean', Thassos is one of Greece's northernmost islands and remains something of a hidden gem.

The island is covered in pine forests and olive groves, with gorgeous beaches like Golden Beach, Tripiti and Makryammos offering crystal-clear waters perfect for families and couples alike.

Flights will head to Kavala International Airport on the mainland, with the Stansted route being exclusive to Jet2.