Finnair has been forced to suspend operation of eight Airbus A321s, owing to a technical snag during washing of seat covers.
The airline cancelled about 40 flights on 13-14 October, and has recruited the Lithuanian division of Danish operator DAT to operate certain services from 15 October.
Finnair says it has been informed that the water-washing process of cleaning seat covers has “not been properly verified” with regards to its effect on fire protection.
“Safety is always our top priority, and we always follow the manufacturers’ maintenance instructions,” the carrier adds.
It operates 15 A321s which are configured with 209 seats.
Finnair has advised passengers that the A321 disruption could result in further flight cancellations, or changes in aircraft type or operator, until the situation is resolved. It points out that DAT will follow Finnair’s service concept.
