ABERDEEN, United Kingdom — Travelers in the North East of Scotland are set to enjoy renewed ease of access to Eastern Europe. AirBaltic has confirmed that it will resume direct flights between Aberdeen and Riga starting June 2, 2026, operating on a twice-weekly basis through September 2026, with services on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Restarting a Key Route
This move marks a return of a much-missed route initially paused in February 2025. At that time, around 67,000 passengers and nearly 4,700 flights were disrupted due to aircraft shortages and maintenance delays. The revival underlines AirBaltic’s commitment to expanding connectivity in its network and responding to growing demand in the UK market.
Modern Aircraft and Stellar Connectivity
Flights will be operated using the Airbus A220-300, a modern aircraft known for its comfortable, spacious cabin, quiet operation, and a seating capacity of up to 149 passengers.
A standout feature of these flights is complimentary high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi, powered by SpaceX. AirBaltic has begun equipping its entire fleet with this cutting-edge technology, offering passengers seamless connectivity in the sky.
Enhancing Travel and Tourism Links
Riga continues to grow as a top city-break destination, thanks to its medieval Old Town, iconic Art Nouveau architecture, and rich cultural offerings—all at an affordable price. The renewed route will make it easier than ever for leisure travelers, city explorers, and culture seekers from Scotland to enjoy Latvia’s charms.
It also offers business travelers in Aberdeen direct access to Latvia’s growing economy and excellent onward connections to the Baltics, Finland, and Scandinavia.
Airport and Airline Perspectives
At Aberdeen Airport, local officials are celebrating the partnership’s return. Airport leadership has highlighted the dual benefits—connecting leisure and commerce—while also praising the A220’s fuel efficiency and sustainability credentials as forward-thinking.
From AirBaltic’s side, the airline’s network management team notes growing UK demand and sees this route as strengthening ties between Scotland and Eastern Europe—offering seamless onward travel options across its Baltic-wide services.
Riga Airport: A Growing Baltic Hub
Riga International Airport (RIX), the gateway to Latvia’s capital, is the busiest airport in the Baltics, handling millions of passengers annually. It is a key hub for AirBaltic, offering numerous connections throughout the region and serving as a central node for travel and trade across Eastern and Northern Europe.
What Travelers Can Expect
- When: Flights resume June 2, 2026, operating on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
- Aircraft: AirBaltic will use the Airbus A220-300, offering comfort, quiet cabins, and efficient design.
- Connectivity: Passengers enjoy free high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi for productivity or leisure.
- Why It Matters: Opens new doors between Aberdeen and Riga—for business, culture, and tourism.
- Beyond Riga: Convenient onward travel to destinations across the Baltics, Scandinavia, and beyond via Riga.
Broader Travel Implications
The route’s return not only strengthens tourism but also cements Aberdeen’s role as a gateway to Eastern European markets. With AirBaltic expanding its network—including other resumed and new routes from Riga—travelers now benefit from a broader, integrated travel matrix that enhances both business and leisure options.
Conclusion
The reinstatement of the AirBaltic Aberdeen–Riga route beginning in June 2026 brings welcome news for travelers in the region. Offering twice-weekly service, modern comfort via the Airbus A220-300, and in-flight Starlink connectivity, this route revitalizes links between Scotland and the Baltics.
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