Finnair unveiled the first of its 19 Airbus A350 WXB aircraft on order, becoming the first European airline to fly the fuel-efficient aircraft.

“This moment heralds a new and exciting chapter in Finnair’s 92 year history. The A350 is the future of flying and will give our passengers a completely new and enhanced travel experience,” said Pekka Vauramo, CEO, Finnair. “This is also a proud moment for all Finnair employees who have worked relentlessly on the Finnair A350 program. From route planning to pilots and cabin crew, from technical services to marketing, this is the moment we have worked for. With the A350, we get the fleet that our strategy requires, and we can start building our growth.”

Passengers flying Finnair’s new A350 XWB will enjoy a unique Nordic experience onboard, from its award-winning cabin design by top Finnish design firm dSign Vertti Kivi & Co to personalized service from the cabin crew. To add a distinct Nordic touch to the flying experience, passengers can enjoy Finnish delicacies like warm smoked char and wild reindeer on tableware and textiles specifically designed by iconic Finnish design house Marimekko and sip on the A350 signature drink, featuring a mix of French champagne and Finnish blueberry liquor.

The aircraft is equipped with 297 seats, including 46 in business class that convent to fully flat beds, provides free Internet access to premium passengers as well as Finnair Plus Gold and Platinum members and oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members. For added convenience and comfort, female passengers flying business class can take advantage of a dedicated ladies room stocked with cosmetics and other supplies.

Finnair’s first A350 will operate long-haul service between Helsinki (HEL) and Shanghai (PVG) from Nov. 21. The carrier expects the A350 fleet investment will assist with doubling its Asian traffic by 2020 from its 2010 baseline. Three more A350 jets are slated to arrive before the end of this year, with another seven scheduled for delivery in 2016 and 2017. Airbus forecasts fulfilling the order by 2023.