Linkaits: Loss of airBaltic Would Be a Major Blow to Riga Airport and Latvia's Connectivity
Former transport minister Tālis Linkaits warns that if airBaltic were to leave or significantly reduce its operations, it would seriously affect Riga Airport and Latvia's links with the world, as the entire infrastructure is built around the national airline's transit model.
Riga Airport has been developed for years around airBaltic's transit model. If the national carrier were to stop operating or significantly reduce its presence, the consequences would go beyond passengers. Former transport minister Tālis Linkaits told TV24 programme 'Naudas cena' that this would be a heavy blow to both the airport and Latvia's connectivity with the rest of the world.
Linkaits recalled that the entire airport infrastructure, including the baggage handling system, is designed so that passengers can quickly transfer from one flight to another. According to him, such possibilities are not available in Vilnius or Tallinn. 'This is what we sold,' said Linkaits.
He pointed out that the impact of airBaltic's downsizing is already visible at Riga Airport. Passenger numbers no longer reach previously planned levels, and growth is not as fast as at neighbouring airports. 'If airBaltic leaves, it will be a setback for many years,' the former minister stressed.
Linkaits acknowledged that major airlines and low-cost carriers would likely continue flying to Riga, offering the most popular routes. However, that alone would not be enough to fully replace airBaltic's role. He also recalled the Covid-19 period, when the suspension of airBaltic flights affected more than just passenger traffic. People often notice only flights and passengers, but the air cargo segment is equally important, and the national airline plays a significant role in it.
