If it wasn't common knowledge that Scandinavians are far more free-spirited than conservative, puritanical Americans, it is now with the addition of free plastic surgery to Finnair's list of frequent flier award possibilities. I do have to admit that using frequent flier miles for breast implants, hair replacement surgery or a face-lift never has crossed my mind. Until now, that is.
"Finnair contacted the hospital" , (that's Nordstroem Hospital in Helsinki). "The idea was to incorporate partners and services for all walks of life.", said Mikko Tuomainen who directs the airline's loyalty program, Finnair Plus.
According to Finnair, they are also in discussions with other medical companies to offer additional health-related services. Those other services will probably require fewer miles than what is currently offered on Finnair's website. With 1.3 million members of Finnair Plus, the airline is figuring that they will get some takers for the plastic surgery mileage redemption offer.
So, let's say you're a frequent, make that a VERY frequent Finnair flier. All you need is 3.18 million miles to earn a new pair of breasts. Or putting it into layman's terms.....120 business-class round-trip flights between Helsinki and New York. That shouldn't be too difficult to attain. I wonder how many round-trips that correlates to if you fly coach?
Other plastic surgery options include lower lid surgery for a mere 1.32 million miles, and upper lid surgery is only 780,000 miles. See, now we're getting closer to your comfort level. Want to really use up those Finnair miles in one fell swoop? How about hair transplantation for just 3.2 million miles or a multi-layer face-lift that will only take 4.64 million of your miles.
For those frequent fliers who are ready to switch their allegiance from Delta, United, Continental or any other U.S. carrier, Finnair offers service to JFK International Airport in New York and is a member of the OneWorld alliance which includes American Airlines. This is probably one time that the airlines won't be rushing to match with
While I'm sure adding plastic surgery will make Finnair the butt of many jokes, the airline should be able to stomach the free publicity it will generate.