Latvia government reviews airBaltic's new business plan

The Latvian cabinet held an emergency meeting to decide on the national airline airBaltic's new business plan and to grant authority for a state representative at the bondholders' meeting scheduled for 3 August. Transport Minister Rihards Kozlovskis said the decision must be made this week, while Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs noted that the state is both creditor and shareholder of airBaltic and that the two roles need to be separated. The plan aims to attract private capital, keep Riga as the airline’s base and retain at least a 25 % + 1 share for the state.

Political scientist Filips Rajevskis argued that airBaltic is essential to Latvia’s economy and international image, providing a wide network of direct routes that support tourism and business. He questioned criticism of further state funding, emphasizing the long‑term benefits of the airline for the country’s competitiveness.