Our Story

Ilmatar Lodge logoThe story of Ilmatar began in the Fall of 2022 when a SAAB 340b passenger airplane appeared for sale at an auction. Soon, the idea of a unique accommodation experience was born, and following quick decisions, the entrepreneurs found themselves with a special project: converting the old airplane into a lodging site.

The 35-seated commercial airplane, which was most recently used by RAF-Avia, was involved in a landing accident at Savonlinna Airport in January 2019. As a result of the accident, the fuselage was damaged beyond airworthiness, leading to the airplane being auctioned off in October 2022.

The operation to transfer the airplane from Savonlinna Airport to Uurainen required creativity and special arrangements from the entrepreneurs and their partners. The 22-meter wing section was detached from the fuselage using a crane and an aircraft mechanic team, and the airplane was loaded onto special transport trucks. The airplane reached its final location in Uurainen in November 2022. After landing the ground, a group of creative entrepreneurs started to plan the construction work.

The entrepreneurs took some time designing the modifications and creating unique solutions for the airplane, and the actual construction work on the site started in the fall of 2023. In addition to the aircraft, the yard was planned to include a villa building inspired by an air traffic control tower and a granary for additional accommodation.

Values

Courage & Community

We believe that the courage to dream and the bravery to act is the recipe for the best customer experiences. Our inspiration comes from family, friends, and relationships. Ilmatar is a place for doing things together, being together, and experiencing together.

Reliability & Hospitality

We do what we promise and communicate clearly and understandably. This is a matter of honor for us. The well-being of our customers defines us as a company, and we take great pride in ensuring that every traveler feels welcome and valued with us.

The construction project, from the initial idea to the final product, has been an interesting and educational journey, culminating in unforgettable customer experiences!

October 2022: Purchase of the aircraft at auction
November 2022: Transfer of the aircraft from Savonlinna Airport to Uurainen
March 2023: Planning and permit processes
June 2023: Dismantling of the aircraft
September 2023: Groundwork and construction of the villa commenced
November 2023: Topping-out ceremony for the villa
April 2024: Completion of the villa
May 2024: Landscaping and finishing touches
June 2024: Completion of aircraft modifications and grand opening
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