29 May 2025

FAI General Conference 2025: Welcome to Finland - land of open skies, quiet forests, and bold ideas

Timo Hyvönen, main organiser of the 119th FAI General Conference in Finland, shares his enthusiasm for welcoming delegates to his country in October 2025.

In this land where extraordinary landscapes reflect aspirational values, the spirit of freedom runs deep through a vibrant air sports scene, whose participants are looking forward to greeting visitors from all over the world for the 2025 FAI General Conference.

In this interview marking the opening of the conference registration process, Hyvönen expresses a warm Finnish welcome to representatives from the FAI community who will gather in an atmosphere of collaboration and innovation to drive air sports towards the future:

Welcome to our happy land!

“As leaders and pioneers in the world of aviation, your presence in Finland is both an honour and an inspiration,” begins Hyvönen.

“It is with great pleasure that I welcome you for an extraordinary gathering this October. I invite you to experience not just a conference, but a reflection of Finland itself—a country where happiness is a national goal, freedom is deeply cherished, and fairness is woven into the fabric of society. Here, innovation thrives alongside nature, and bold ideas are nurtured in an atmosphere of trust and equality. I believe these values create the perfect environment for open dialogue, creative thinking, and meaningful collaboration. Easy living, the Finnish way!”

Continuing to outline the many benefits the of Finnish lifestyle, Hyvönen continues: “You’ll also find that Finnish hospitality is as genuine as our landscapes—whether it’s a shared coffee by the campfire or a quiet moment in a lakeside sauna. Finland is a land of contrasts: high-tech innovation and deep-rooted tradition, silence and song, forest and sky. I hope this setting will not only support your work but also offer a moment of reflection and renewal.”

Timo Hyvönen on left with Mikko Sinervä, seaplane instructor from Aviaattori, by Tuusulanjärvi, Southern Finland after a training flight 21 May 2024 at 21.42 hrs

Aviation runs through generations

Going on to introduce the Finnish aviation story, Hyvönen explains that the particularities of its geography have inspired generations of air sports enthusiasts.

“I am a second-generation aviator myself. For many of us, aviation in Finland is more than a hobby—it’s a way of life. It’s shaped by long summer evenings at the airfield, where gliders whisper through the sky and the scent of warm sand and grass lingers in the air. That same passion is what I hope to share with you during your time here.”

Timo in the cockpit of a PIK-3C Kajava with his father Heikki standing and holding the plane so that it will not fly away. Rautavaara 1968

Why wait until October?

For those who have not already experienced the Finnish hospitality and landscape, Hyvönen encourages delegates not to wait until October, when the General Conference will take place, but to come and, “fly in Finland this summer. Whether you’re drawn to the midnight sun, the vast open skies, or the peaceful beauty of our lakes and forests, Finland offers unforgettable flying experiences for every aviator. Come explore our airspace, meet our vibrant flying community, and enjoy the freedom of flight in one of the most scenic countries in the world.”

Making the most of a visit to Finland

Hyvönen also suggests some ways of extending the visit to enjoy all that Finland has to offer in Autumn:

“Looking for Christmas presents? If your schedule allows, I warmly encourage you to stay for the weekend following the conference. Whether you choose to explore Helsinki, visit another part of Finland, or simply enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the Finnish forest, I promise it will be time well spent. Let the experience linger a little longer.

After all, you’re already here—just next to the airport! Why not take a day trip to Rovaniemi and visit Santa Claus himself? It’s a magical experience that brings out the child in all of us—and a perfect way to round off your stay.”

Concluding in typically convivial Finnish style, Hyvönen says, “I look forward to sharing this unique journey with you.”

Lake Ontojärvi on 26 June 2023 at 23.45 hrs