Air Baltic

Discover the seamless connectivity and modern comfort of Air Baltic, the flag carrier of Latvia. Since its inception, this innovative airline has established itself as the primary bridge between the Baltic states and the rest of the world, blending low-cost efficiency with full-service quality. With a strong focus on sustainability and passenger experience, Air Baltic ensures that every journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, this carrier offers a reliable and refreshing way to explore Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

A Modern Approach to Aviation
Established in 1995, Air Baltic has grown from a small national carrier into the leading airline of the region. The company is renowned for its hybrid business model, which combines the best practices of traditional network airlines with the efficiency of low-cost carriers. This unique approach allows passengers to choose from a range of service levels, ensuring flexibility and value for every type of traveler.

State-of-the-Art Fleet
One of the airline's most significant achievements is its commitment to operating one of the youngest fleets in Europe. Air Baltic exclusively flies the Airbus A220-300, an aircraft celebrated for its fuel efficiency, wider seats, and larger windows. This single-type fleet strategy not only reduces environmental impact but also guarantees a consistent and comfortable experience on every flight. The modern cabin design offers passengers generous legroom and a quieter atmosphere, reducing fatigue on longer journeys.

Connecting the Baltics to the World
From its main base in Riga, as well as hubs in Tallinn and Vilnius, Air Baltic connects the region to key destinations across Europe, the CIS, and the Middle East. For travelers from the United Arab Emirates, the airline offers vital links, including direct flights between Dubai and the Baltic capitals. This connectivity supports both tourism and business, acting as a gateway for exploring the rich culture and history of Northern Europe.

Commitment to Excellence and Safety
Safety and punctuality are the cornerstones of Air Baltic's operations. The airline has repeatedly been recognized as one of the most punctual carriers globally by industry analysts like OAG. In addition to its operational reliability, the company places a high priority on sustainability, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. With numerous awards for service quality and innovation, Air Baltic continues to set high standards in the aviation industry.

Contact Information for Travelers in the United Arab Emirates

For passengers in the United Arab Emirates, connecting with Air Baltic is best done through their official digital channels or the international customer service center. While the airline operates direct flights from Dubai to the Baltic region, it primarily handles support requests online or via its headquarters in Latvia. Below are the verified details to help you manage your travel plans.

Official Website
For the most up-to-date flight schedules, baggage allowance information, and online check-in, visit the official website:
www.airbaltic.com

Customer Service & Booking Contacts
As there is currently no dedicated local call center in the UAE, inquiries are handled through the international support line. Please note that international calling rates may apply.

• International Customer Service: +371 6700 6006
• Operating Hours: Monday to Friday: 07:00 – 22:00; Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays: 08:00 – 20:00 (Eastern European Time).
• Email Support: For non-urgent queries, you can use the "Contact Us" form on the official website.
• Mobile App: "airBaltic Club" (Available on the App Store and Google Play).

Social Media Channels
The airline is active on major social media platforms, where they often share updates and respond to general queries:

• Facebook: facebook.com/airbaltic
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/airbaltic
• Instagram: instagram.com/airbaltic

Local Presence in the United Arab Emirates
Air Baltic does not maintain a permanent walk-in ticket office in the city center. Passenger services are available at the airport during flight operations.

• Airport Counters: Check-in desks at Dubai International Airport (DXB).
• Availability: Counters typically open 3 hours before the scheduled departure time for flights to Riga and Vilnius.

Baggage Guidelines and Packing Tips

Understanding the baggage policy of Air Baltic is essential for a stress-free journey, especially when traveling on long-haul routes such as the connection between Dubai and the Baltic states. The airline offers flexible options tailored to different ticket types, allowing passengers to choose the allowance that best fits their travel needs. Whether you are flying light for a weekend city break or carrying heavy luggage for an extended stay, familiarizing yourself with these rules will help you avoid unexpected fees at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Air Baltic maintains a strict but clear policy regarding hand luggage to ensure comfort and safety on board their Airbus A220-300 fleet. Every passenger, regardless of ticket class, is entitled to bring onboard:

• One Cabin Bag: Maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 23 cm.
• One Personal Item: Such as a handbag, laptop bag, or tax-free shopping bag, with maximum dimensions of 30 x 40 x 10 cm.

For Economy Class passengers (Green, Green Plus, and Classic tickets), the combined weight of the cabin bag and the personal item must not exceed 8 kg. However, travelers can purchase an upgrade to "Heavy Cabin Baggage," which increases the weight limit to 12 kg free of charge for the extra weight, provided the dimensions remain the same. Business Class passengers enjoy a more generous allowance, with two cabin bags and one personal item allowed, totaling up to 24 kg.

Checked Baggage Limits

Checked baggage allowances depend entirely on the fare class purchased. It is always cheaper to book checked luggage online in advance rather than at the airport.

• Green Tickets: No checked baggage is included in the base fare. Bags must be purchased separately.
• Green Plus & Classic Tickets: Include one checked bag with a maximum weight of 23 kg.
• Business Class: Includes two checked bags, each with a maximum weight of 23 kg (total 46 kg).

The maximum dimensions for any checked bag are 100 x 50 x 80 cm. For safety reasons, a single piece of checked luggage cannot weigh more than 32 kg. If a bag exceeds this weight, the contents must be repacked into separate bags.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight or size limits of your ticket allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. These are significantly higher if paid at the gate, so it is advisable to measure and weigh your bags at home. A heavy bag fee is charged for luggage weighing between 23 kg and 32 kg. Oversized items that exceed standard dimensions will also incur a special handling fee.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Air Baltic accommodates passengers traveling with sports equipment, such as golf bags, skiing gear, or bicycles. These items must be booked in advance. For Business Class ticket holders, one set of sports equipment is usually included free of charge. Musical instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions (e.g., a violin). Larger instruments, such as a cello, require a special ticket for an extra seat or must be checked in as special luggage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. Always check the latest regulations before packing.

• Lithium Batteries & Power Banks: Must be packed in your carry-on luggage only. They are strictly forbidden in checked bags due to fire risks.
• Liquids in Cabin: On flights departing from DXB or Riga, liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml each, placed in a transparent, resealable 1-liter plastic bag.
• Prohibited Items: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and sharp objects (in the cabin) are not allowed.

Tips for Efficient Packing

When preparing for your flight to Vilnius or other destinations, consider these tips to streamline your experience:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale to ensure your cabin bag is under 8 kg (or 12 kg if upgraded). Gate agents frequently check weights.
• Label Everything: Attach a tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked bags. Placing a copy of your contact details inside the bag is also a smart backup.
• Secure Fragile Items: Wrap fragile souvenirs securely and place them in the center of your checked bag, surrounded by soft clothes for cushioning.
• Valuables: Always keep travel documents, medication, jewelry, and electronics in your carry-on bag.

Traveling with Pets on Air Baltic

Air Baltic understands that pets are part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. Whether you are relocating or heading on a long vacation, the airline permits cats and dogs to travel either in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as manifested cargo, depending on their size and weight. It is essential to book this service well in advance, as there is a limited capacity for animals on each flight, particularly on popular routes connecting Dubai with the Baltic states.

Transport Options

• Carrier Dimensions: The container must not exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm. It should be a soft, bite-proof, and waterproof carrier or bag that fits fully under the seat in front of you.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pet Types: Only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin.
• Breed Restrictions: Generally, there are no breed restrictions for cabin travel, provided the animal fits comfortably in the carrier.
• Limit Per Passenger: One carrier per passenger is allowed. Two small pets of the same species can share one carrier if they do not exceed the weight limit and can move freely.

• Container Requirements: Animals must be transported in a rigid, IATA-compliant crate with sufficient ventilation. The pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Weight and Size Limits: The maximum weight for the pet and crate combined is usually 75 kg. If the combined weight exceeds this, the animal must travel as cargo.
• Temperature Restrictions: For safety, pets may not be accepted if extreme temperatures are forecast at departure, transit, or arrival airports.
• Required Documentation: Original documents must be attached to the crate, and water/food containers must be accessible from the outside.

• When Required: This option is mandatory for animals that, together with their crate, exceed the 75 kg limit for checked baggage, or for animals traveling unaccompanied.
• Special Requirements: This service is handled by the Air Baltic Cargo department and follows strict international transport regulations.
• Booking Procedure: You must contact the cargo department directly or use a specialized freight forwarder to arrange the shipment.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth departure from airports like Riga or Dubai, you must have the following documents ready:

• Veterinary Passport: An official EU pet passport or equivalent document for non-EU countries.
• Health Certificate: A valid clinical exam confirming the animal is fit to fly, typically issued within a specific timeframe before travel (often 48-72 hours).
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid anti-rabies vaccination and other treatments as required by the destination country.
• International Certificates: Specific animal health certificates required for entry into the destination country (e.g., the EU animal health certificate for pets entering Vilnius from outside the EU).

Service Costs

Fees for transporting pets are non-refundable and are charged per direction.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €70 per direction.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Approximately €100 to €200 per direction, depending on the size of the crate and the route.
• Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary based on the point of sale and specific route regulations.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier Requirements: Ensure your pet is familiar with the carrier weeks before the flight. Place treats or a familiar blanket inside to create a positive association.
• Feeding Before Flight: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent air sickness. Do not feed them right before flying.
• Stress Reduction: Vigorous exercise before the flight can help your pet sleep during the journey. Consult your vet about calming sprays if your pet is anxious.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs and cats, such as Pugs, Bulldogs, or Persian cats, are often restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks. They may travel in the cabin if they meet the weight limits.
• Prohibited Animals: Reptiles, rodents, and other exotic animals are not accepted as baggage and must be transported as cargo if permitted.
• Exceptions: Service animals trained to assist passengers with disabilities travel free of charge in the cabin, provided valid documentation is submitted in advance.

Important: Animal import and export regulations vary significantly by country. For example, transporting pets into the UAE often requires them to arrive as manifested cargo rather than checked baggage. Always contact Air Baltic customer service and the relevant local authorities to confirm the latest rules for your specific itinerary.

Loyalty Program: airBaltic Club

Travelers flying with Air Baltic can maximize the value of their journeys by joining the airBaltic Club. This innovative loyalty program is designed to reward frequent flyers with flexibility and practical benefits, making it easier to travel between the Middle East, the Baltics, and beyond. Whether you are commuting from Dubai or exploring Northern Europe, the program offers a straightforward way to earn currency and enjoy exclusive privileges.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The airBaltic Club structure is simple, consisting of three main levels based on the number of flights taken within a year. Progressing through the tiers unlocks increasing levels of comfort and priority.

• Club Level (Entry): Immediate access to ticket sales, point collection on all flights, and digital card usage.
• Executive Level (30 flights): Priority check-in at the airport and fast track security access in Riga.
• VIP Level (60 flights): Business lounge access, two free heavy cabin bags, and unlimited free seat selection.
• VIP Benefits continued: Complimentary upgrade vouchers and a validity extension for your points.

Earning Points and Stamps

One of the unique features of the airBaltic Club is the ability to earn both loyalty points and "stamps" for reward flights. This dual system allows casual travelers to reach rewards faster.

• Flights: Earn up to 3 points per euro spent on tickets and extra services.
• Digital Stamps: Collect a stamp for every one-way flight; 5 stamps unlock a reward flight (paying only taxes).
• Partner Airlines: Earn points when flying with codeshare partners like KLM and Air France.
• Travel Partners: Accumulate points booking hotels via Booking.com or renting cars with Rentalcars.com.
• Financial Partners: Earn additional points through co-branded payment cards where available.

Redeeming Your Rewards

The program focuses on flexibility, allowing members to spend their points on a variety of travel enhancements or full trips.

• Reward Flights: Purchase flight tickets to any destination using points plus a cash component for taxes.
• Flight Upgrades: Use points to upgrade from Economy to Business Class for superior comfort.
• Baggage Vouchers: Pay for checked luggage with accumulated points instead of cash.
• Gift Cards: Exchange points for airBaltic gift vouchers to use later or give to friends.
• Mix & Cash: Combine points and cash to pay for flight tickets if you do not have enough points.

Airline Partnerships

While Air Baltic is not a member of a major global alliance like Star Alliance or SkyTeam, it maintains strong codeshare partnerships to extend its reach. Travelers can often earn points or enjoy seamless connections when flying with major international carriers.

• Key Partners: Air France, KLM, Etihad Airways, SAS, and TAP Air Portugal.
• Connectivity: Partnerships facilitate smoother transfers for passengers traveling from the UAE via Europe.

How to Join

Joining the airBaltic Club is free and can be done instantly online. Simply download the airBaltic Club mobile app or register on the official website to receive your digital membership card immediately. New members often receive a welcome bonus of points to kickstart their journey.

Flight Experience and Service Classes

Flying with Air Baltic offers a distinctively modern experience, primarily due to its fleet consisting exclusively of the Airbus A220-300. This state-of-the-art aircraft is designed to maximize passenger space and comfort, making even longer routes, such as the flight between Riga and Dubai, pleasant and relaxing. The airline divides its cabin into two main service classes: Business and Economy, each tailored to meet different travel needs and budgets.

Business Class

For travelers seeking the highest level of comfort and privacy, Business Class on Air Baltic delivers a premium experience from check-in to landing. Passengers in this class enjoy priority check-in, fast-track security access at the hub, and access to business lounges.

• Seating Comfort: Located at the front of the cabin, Business Class seats guarantee an empty adjacent seat. This blocked middle seat ensures extra privacy and more personal space to work or relax.
• All-Inclusive Service: The ticket includes a generous baggage allowance (two cabin bags and two checked bags), complimentary sports equipment, and unlimited flight changes.
• Dining: A sophisticated seasonal three-course meal is served on real china, accompanied by a selection of fine wines, champagne, and other beverages throughout the flight.

Economy Class

Air Baltic's Economy Class is designed to be flexible, offering several fare families (Green, Green Plus, and Classic) that allow passengers to pay only for the services they need.

• Seat Configuration: The cabin features a unique 2-3 seat layout. This means there are fewer middle seats compared to other aircraft, making it easier for couples or solo travelers to find a window or aisle seat.
• Comfort Features: The seats are among the widest in the single-aisle market (18.5 inches), providing generous legroom. The cabin also features larger windows for better views and mood lighting to reduce jet lag.
• Flexibility: While "Green" tickets are the most affordable basic option, "Classic" fares include checked baggage and seat selection, bridging the gap between low-cost and full-service travel.

Dining and Beverages

The culinary experience varies significantly by class. While Business Class guests enjoy complimentary gourmet meals, Economy Class passengers have access to a versatile buy-on-board selection.

• Pre-Order Meals: Economy passengers are highly encouraged to pre-order their meals online up to 24 hours before departure. The pre-order menu offers a wide variety of hot dishes—from grilled salmon to specialized dietary options (gluten-free, vegan, kosher)—often at a lower price than buying onboard.
• Onboard Menu: A selection of sandwiches, snacks, coffee, and soft drinks is available for purchase during the flight. Payment is typically card-only.

Entertainment and Amenities

Air Baltic focuses on a "bring your own device" concept. The aircraft are not equipped with seatback screens, which contributes to the slim and spacious seat design. Passengers flying to Dubai or other destinations are advised to download movies, music, or books to their personal tablets or smartphones prior to departure.

However, the cabin is equipped with small overhead screens that display the flight map and safety videos. A standout feature of the A220 fleet is the high-quality air filtration system and lower cabin altitude pressure, which helps passengers arrive feeling fresher and less fatigued.

Special Services

The airline provides comprehensive support for passengers requiring special assistance, ensuring that travel is accessible to everyone.

• Families with Children: Passengers traveling with infants can check in a fully collapsible stroller for free. Unaccompanied minor services are available for children aged 5 to 11 flying alone, ensuring they are supervised from check-in until they are met by a guardian at the destination, such as Vilnius.
• Reduced Mobility: Assistance for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility is available at all airports. It is mandatory to request this service at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee the necessary support and wheelchair availability.
• Expectant Mothers: Women can fly up to the 36th week of pregnancy (or 34th for multiple pregnancies). After the 28th week, a medical certificate confirming fitness to fly is required.

Air Baltic facilitates direct connections between the Middle East and the Baltic states, offering a vital bridge for travelers to explore Northern Europe. The airline operates scheduled flights from Dubai to its primary hub in Riga, as well as direct services to Vilnius. This network ensures seamless transfers and reliable travel options for passengers departing from the United Arab Emirates.

Booking a flight with Air Baltic is a straightforward process, but knowing a few insider tips can help you secure the best value and a smoother journey. Generally, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance to lock in lower fares, especially for popular routes connecting the Middle East to Northern Europe, such as the direct service from Dubai to the airline's main hub in Riga. Keep an eye out for the airline's major seasonal promotions, often known as the "Green Sale" or "Cherry Sale," which can offer significant discounts on flights to destinations like Vilnius and beyond.

When choosing your ticket, carefully review the fare classes. The Green fare is the most budget-friendly option but typically covers only hand luggage, making it ideal for light travelers. If you plan to check bags or want the flexibility to change dates, the Classic fare often provides better overall value than adding services individually. For the most comfortable experience, Business class offers priority services, extra luggage allowance, and a vacant adjacent seat for added privacy.

One of the most important tips for flying with Air Baltic is to utilize their online check-in procedures. Check-in usually opens five days before departure for passengers who have reserved a seat, and strictly closer to the flight time for those who haven't. It is highly recommended to complete this process online or via the mobile app to avoid potential check-in fees at the airport counters. The Air Baltic mobile app is also an excellent tool for managing your itinerary, purchasing add-ons like meals, and keeping your boarding pass handy on your device.

Regarding seat selection, the airline operates a modern fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft, which are known for their spacious cabins and large windows. However, if you have a specific preference, such as extra legroom or sitting together with travel companions, it is best to reserve your seats during the initial booking process. Finally, always consider purchasing travel insurance either through the airline or independently to protect your trip against unexpected cancellations or medical emergencies.

History and Corporate Development

Founding and Early Years
The story of Air Baltic began in August 1995, when the airline was established as a joint venture between the Latvian government and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). Taking to the skies shortly thereafter, the carrier initially operated a modest fleet of Saab 340 turboprops. In its formative years, the airline focused primarily on establishing vital connections between Riga and Scandinavian hubs, laying the groundwork for what would become the backbone of Baltic aviation.

Strategic Shifts and Ownership
As the airline grew, so did its ambitions. The early 2000s marked a period of significant modernization and independence. While SAS was instrumental in the founding phase, the airline eventually transitioned to become primarily state-owned, allowing it to pursue a tailored strategy focused on the specific needs of the Baltic region. This structural independence enabled the company to adopt a unique hybrid model, blending the efficiency of low-cost operations with the connectivity of traditional network carriers, a move that secured its dominance in Northern Europe.

Fleet Evolution: A Bold Transformation
One of the most defining milestones in the company's history was its fleet restructuring. For many years, Air Baltic operated a mixed fleet including Avro RJ70s, Fokker 50s, Boeing 737s, and Bombardier Q400 Dash 8s. However, looking towards a sustainable future, the airline made a visionary decision to modernize completely. In 2016, it became the global launch customer for the Airbus A220-300 (then known as the Bombardier CS300). By 2020, the carrier had phased out all other aircraft types to operate a single-type fleet of A220s, streamlining maintenance and offering passengers a consistently high level of comfort.

Expanding Horizons
From its initial regional focus, the airline has aggressively expanded its network to cover Europe, the Caucasus, and the Middle East. A major highlight in its recent route expansion is the establishment of direct flights to Dubai. This long-haul service represents a significant bridge between the Baltic states and the UAE, facilitating tourism and business trade. The airline also strengthened its presence in neighboring capitals, establishing bases in Tallinn and Vilnius to serve the wider region.

Modern Innovations
Today, Air Baltic is recognized not just for its growth but for its innovative spirit. It was one of the first airlines globally to embrace digital currencies for payment, accepting Bitcoin as early as 2014. Furthermore, its commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations, with the fuel-efficient Airbus A220 fleet significantly reducing CO2 emissions. Continually evolving, the airline remains focused on connecting the Baltics with the world while setting industry standards for efficiency and passenger experience.