Riga Airport experienced a robust February, marked by significant growth in passenger traffic and cargo handling.
The airport’s latest performance figures highlight its continued expansion and strategic development, positioning it as a key aviation hub in the Baltic region.
Passenger Traffic Rises
In February, Riga Airport welcomed 433,000 passengers. This contributed to a total of approximately 900,000 travellers since the beginning of the year.
This represents a healthy 9% increase compared to the first two months of 2024, demonstrating consistent growth. Similarly, the number of flights handled by the airport rose by 8% in February and by 10% since January.
A significant 20% of passengers utilized Riga Airport as a transit hub. The numbers highlight its importance as a connecting point for travellers.
The average flight occupancy remained strong at around 75%, indicating efficient utilization of airline capacity. The most popular destination countries for flights departing from Riga were the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Sweden, reflecting diverse travel preferences.
Airline Dominance and Cargo Growth
Latvian national airline airBaltic continued to be the leading carrier at Riga Airport in February. Irish low-cost carrier Ryanair followed closely, accounting for 35% of the total passenger volume.
Riga Airport also witnessed a remarkable surge in cargo handling, thanks to the regular cargo connection provided by Lufthansa Cargo.
The volume of aviation cargo processed at the airport has increased by over 20% since the start of 2024. To date, over 3,000 tonnes of aviation cargo have been handled at Riga Airport, demonstrating its growing role in the region’s logistics network.
Apron 4 Reconstruction
Riga Airport has initiated the first stage of construction procurement for the reconstruction of Apron 4, a project supported by European Union funds.
The funding contract, secured with the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), aims to transform Apron 4 into a dual-use TEN-T infrastructure for both civilian and military purposes.
The ambitious project will involve reconstructing over 80,000 square meters of the apron’s hard surface. It will create aircraft stands in ten different configurations for Class A-E aircraft, and establish taxiing and service roads.
This reconstruction will provide much-needed additional aircraft stands, enhance military mobility, and facilitate the expansion of the cargo service area.
The project also includes the establishment of storage areas for aircraft servicing equipment. The installation of an aerodrome lighting system will also see the reconstruction of lighting masts and floodlights.
The deadline for submitting proposals for the first stage of the construction tender is April 8th. The reconstruction of Apron 4 is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027.
Cargo City Vision
Riga Airport’s development strategy centers on the creation of a comprehensive cargo service area, or Cargo City, around Aprons 4 and 5. This strategic vision is already taking shape.
In 2020, a newly constructed specialized cargo service apron became operational, followed by the opening of DHL’s regional shipment processing and logistics center a year later.
Additionally, airBaltic has established its own cargo processing logistics center, the Baltic Cargo Hub.
These developments underscore Riga Airport’s commitment to enhancing its cargo handling capabilities and solidifying its position as a vital logistics gateway in the region.
The airport’s strong February performance, coupled with its ongoing infrastructure projects, signals a promising future for Riga Airport as a key player in the European aviation landscape.
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