Latvian national airline airBaltic has announced a change in its leadership following a decision made at the regular Shareholders’ Meeting.
Effective today, Pauls Cālītis, the current Chief Operations Officer and a member of the Management Board, has assumed the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
This transition comes as Martin Gauss, who has served as the company’s CEO since 2011, stepped down from his position.
airBaltic Leadership Change
In a social media post, outgoing airBaltic CEO Martin Gauss commented on the dynamics of the situation. “The Latvian government, as majority shareholder, has withdrawn its trust. And the Supervisory Board has acted accordingly.”
“I leave after 13 intense years, proud of what we built: a resilient airline, a loyal team, and a bold vision. I gave everything — and I would do it again. Thank you to those who stood by me. The mission continues, even if the seat changes.”
Andrejs Martinovs, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of airBaltic, expressed his gratitude for the outgoing CEO’s significant contributions.
“On behalf of the Supervisory Board and the entire airBaltic team, we extend our sincere gratitude to Martin Gauss for his leadership, dedication, and vision since 2011,” stated Martinovs.
He highlighted Gauss’s role in navigating the airline through a period of substantial transformation and growth, establishing a robust foundation for its future endeavors.
Martinovs also conveyed the Supervisory Board’s confidence in the existing management team. “At the same time, we maintain full confidence in the Management Board and the professional team. It ensures the company’s day-to-day operations, passenger services, and overall management.”
“Our core objectives remain unchanged, and airBaltic continues to implement its strategy and move forward toward a potential IPO,” he affirmed. This statement underscores the airline’s commitment to its current strategic direction and long-term goals.
Interim CEO Appointed
The appointment of Pauls Cālītis as Interim CEO signifies a period of continuity and stability for airBaltic. Cālītis brings a wealth of experience to the role, having dedicated 30 years to the airline.
His journey began in 1995 as a pilot, and he progressively took on senior leadership responsibilities, including overseeing flight operations.
His extensive knowledge of the airline’s operations culminated in his appointment as Chief Operations Officer and a member of the Management Board in 2020.
In his first statement as airBaltic Interim CEO, Pauls Cālītis reassured stakeholders of the airline’s unwavering commitment. “airBaltic continues its operations with unwavering commitment to achieving its strategic goals.”
“The company’s operational performance will remain unaffected. Our team is strong and motivated, and we are fully prepared to ensure stability, continuity, and further development,” Cālītis emphasized.
His long tenure and deep understanding of the airline’s intricacies position him well to lead during this interim period.
Vitolds Jakovļevs will continue to serve in his current capacity as a Management Board Member and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), providing further stability to the leadership team. This ensures that the airline’s financial strategies and operational management remain aligned during this transition.
airBaltic Operations Continue
airBaltic plays a crucial role in the Latvian economy and its national connectivity. As the majority shareholder, the Latvian state remains focused on the airline’s development, aiming to enhance its competitiveness within the European aviation market.
The ongoing progress towards a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO) remains a key objective for the shareholders, signaling their long-term vision for the airline’s growth and sustainability.
The airline’s operations will proceed without interruption. airBaltic currently operates nearly 130 routes from its main hubs in Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius, as well as Tampere and, seasonally, Gran Canaria.
These routes provide vital connections to a diverse network of destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus region, facilitating both business and leisure travel.
Conclusion
This leadership transition marks a new chapter for airBaltic, building upon the strong foundation laid by Martin Gauss.
With Pauls Cālītis at the helm as Interim CEO and the continued dedication of the experienced Management Board, airBaltic now remains focused on its strategic objectives.
It continues its journey towards a potential IPO, solidifying its position as a key player in the European aviation landscape.
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