KLM Launches New Direct Flights to Kittilä, Unlocking Winter Adventures in Finnish Lapland
Kittilä, a picturesque Arctic town nestled 120 kilometers above the Arctic Circle in northwest Finnish Lapland, is set to welcome more international travelers this winter thanks to a new direct flight service launched by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Starting November 23, 2025, the new weekly route from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) to Kittilä Airport (KTT) will operate through March 22, 2026, offering a direct gateway to one of Finland’s most sought-after winter destinations.
The introduction of this seasonal service underscores KLM’s commitment to expanding its Nordic network and meeting the increasing demand for Arctic tourism. With just a three-hour flight, travelers from across Europe and beyond will now have easy access to the frozen beauty and adventure-filled landscapes of Lapland.
A New Arctic Gateway from Amsterdam
The new route, designated flight KL1261, departs Amsterdam every Sunday at 12:20 PM and lands in Kittilä at 4:20 PM local time. The return flight, KL1262, departs at 5:10 PM from Kittilä and arrives back in Amsterdam by 7:20 PM. Operated with Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the service offers passengers reliable comfort, efficiency, and seamless connectivity to KLM’s global network.
This strategic launch comes amid growing international interest in the unique winter experiences that only Finnish Lapland can offer. According to Visit Finland and the Finnish Lapland Tourist Board, Lapland saw a surge in winter travel demand in recent years, with Kittilä recording one of the highest volumes of foreign tourist overnight stays during the snowy season.
Discover Kittilä: Lapland’s Winter Playground
Kittilä is renowned not only for its snow-draped wilderness, but also as the base for two of Finland’s most famous ski resorts: Levi and Ylläs.
Levi, Finland’s largest ski resort, boasts 44 downhill slopes and 26 ski lifts, offering over 200 ski days per year. The resort also features snowboarding parks, toboggan hills, and a dynamic après-ski scene. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just looking to enjoy the winter atmosphere, Levi caters to all types of travelers.
Meanwhile, Ylläs offers a more serene, expansive experience with 82 slopes and over 330 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails—the most extensive network in Finland. It is also one of the best places in the region to witness the Northern Lights, especially from early December to late March when the skies are clearest.
Beyond skiing, Kittilä and its surrounding areas present a rich variety of Arctic adventures: snowmobiling, husky sledding, snowshoe trekking, and reindeer safaris are just some of the unforgettable experiences on offer. Adventure seekers and families alike can also explore ice hotels, glass igloos, and the region’s legendary smoke saunas—perfect for relaxing after a day in the snow.
Cultural Encounters and Sámi Heritage
For travelers interested in cultural immersion, Kittilä offers access to authentic Sámi heritage—the culture of Finland’s indigenous people. Local villages and museums, such as the Sámi Museum Siida in nearby Inari and art exhibitions from local creators, give insight into traditional Sámi livelihoods, including reindeer herding, crafts, and joik singing.
Kittilä is also home to the Pekka Pylkkanen Art Gallery and the SnowVillage in Lainio, a mesmerizing seasonal attraction built from snow and ice, featuring themed suites, sculptures, and even an ice chapel.
KLM’s Broader Lapland Strategy
In addition to the new Kittilä service, KLM is boosting its existing operations to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and globally recognized as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Starting in November 2025, the airline will increase weekly flights to Rovaniemi from three to four times, adding Tuesdays to the previous Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday schedule.
These expanded services signal KLM’s clear strategy to make Finnish Lapland more accessible and competitive as a top-tier winter destination, particularly during the European holiday season.
According to KLM’s Senior Vice President of Network Planning, “Lapland has shown immense growth potential in recent years, driven by its unique offerings—from the Aurora Borealis to immersive snow adventures. These new flights position us to better serve our customers and stimulate tourism in Finland’s northern regions.”
A Perfect Time to Plan Your Arctic Escape
With its remote beauty, exhilarating winter sports, and magical atmosphere, Kittilä is poised to become one of the most desirable winter getaways in Europe. The town’s compact size, accessibility to major resorts, and authentic Arctic charm make it ideal for solo adventurers, couples seeking romantic retreats, and families chasing snowy fun.
Visit Finland encourages travelers to book early, especially during peak Christmas and New Year periods, when Levi and Ylläs are in high demand. Tourism officials also recommend exploring local accommodations like log cabins, boutique hotels, and eco-certified lodges for a more intimate experience of Lapland’s pristine environment.
Conclusion
With KLM’s new weekly service to Kittilä and increased connectivity to Rovaniemi, the Arctic Circle has never been more accessible. From thrilling winter sports to cultural discoveries and unforgettable aurora sightings, Finnish Lapland offers something for every traveler. As KLM continues to expand its Arctic footprint, this new route marks a major milestone in connecting the world to the magical heart of the North.
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