Published on
January 2, 2026
By: Tuhin Sarkar
This summer, Latvia is joining Lithuania, Poland, Armenia, and Moldova in making exciting strides to connect European countries, creating greater opportunities for travel and tourism. As the Baltic tourism scene continues to grow, Latvia is now a key player, boosting tourism in the region by strengthening its connections with these countries. This new development comes as Latvia enhances its travel links to Europe, making it even more accessible for international visitors.
By adding new routes and offering more convenient travel options, Latvia is ensuring that tourists have easier access to the Baltic region. The growing demand for direct connections between Baltic countries and other European hubs has spurred this exciting update. The ability to travel seamlessly between Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Armenia, and Moldova is set to offer more flexibility for both business and leisure travelers. This strategic move is expected to boost Baltic tourism significantly, making it a must-read update for anyone planning a trip to the Baltic States this summer.
Stay tuned for more insights on how Latvia’s travel connections will redefine tourism in Europe and increase the influx of travelers to these incredible destinations!
airBaltic is soaring to new heights with its bold expansion plan for summer 2026, launching four new routes that will revolutionize travel across the Baltic States and beyond. As the flag carrier of Latvia, airBaltic continues to solidify its position as the dominant force in the region’s aviation market. This exciting network expansion, including three new routes from Riga and one from Vilnius, is set to transform the way travelers connect across Europe.
Starting March 30, 2026, airBaltic will introduce three weekly flights on the Riga to Warsaw route, followed by two weekly flights on the Riga-Gothenburg route beginning April 13. Not to be outdone, Vilnius will see airBaltic’s entry with two weekly flights to Chisinau, launching April 1, and three weekly flights to Zurich, starting May 3. This marks the airline’s strategic leap to provide even more direct routes, increased frequency, and expanded capacity to key European destinations.
These moves reflect airBaltic’s commitment to boosting connectivity in the region, with the overall expansion expected to increase seat capacity by 12% in Riga, 11% in Tallinn, and a massive 21% in Lithuania. As Mantas Vrubliauskas, Vice President of Network Management, notes, the goal is to provide more destinations, better connectivity, and greater flexibility for travelers. This expansion is sure to create more opportunities for both business and leisure passengers. Let’s take a closer look at how these new routes will reshape travel across the Baltic States and Europe.
Riga to Warsaw: A Thrilling New Connection Between Two Vibrant European Capitals
One of the most eagerly anticipated additions is the new nonstop flight from Riga to Warsaw, which will operate three times per week starting March 30, 2026. This new route will provide direct access between Latvia’s capital and Poland’s thriving capital city, enhancing business and tourism connectivity between two of Europe’s most dynamic economies. Warsaw, known for its rich history, innovative industries, and cultural depth, has long been a key destination for Latvian business travelers, and now, with this direct flight, the journey will be easier, quicker, and more convenient.
Warsaw is also a gateway to the rest of Poland and Central Europe, making this new airBaltic route perfect for travelers looking to explore the region. Whether you’re heading for work or pleasure, airBaltic’s Riga-Warsaw route will significantly reduce travel time and provide passengers with a comfortable, direct connection between two major European hubs. This expansion is a crucial step for airBaltic, which continues to strengthen its European network, providing travelers with direct access to new markets and opportunities.
Riga to Gothenburg: Air Baltic Brings Sweden’s Hidden Gem to the Baltic
Next on the list is airBaltic’s new route from Riga to Gothenburg, set to operate two times per week, starting April 13, 2026. Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, offers a unique blend of historical charm, maritime heritage, and innovative industries. This new connection from Riga will make it easier than ever for Latvian travelers to experience Gothenburg’s beautiful canals, parks, and cultural attractions, including the famous Universeum science center and the stunning Liseberg amusement park.
Gothenburg is also a major port city, making it a prime destination for business travelers involved in shipping, logistics, and international trade. With airBaltic’s nonstop flights, both Swedes and Latvians will now enjoy seamless travel between these two important Nordic and Baltic cities, making the region even more accessible for business and tourism alike. With airBaltic leading the way in providing more frequent and affordable travel options, the connection between Riga and Gothenburg will become an essential route for travelers throughout Northern Europe.
Vilnius to Chisinau: Lithuania and Moldova Connect with Air Baltic’s New 2X-Weekly Service
The third new route from airBaltic connects Vilnius to Chisinau, with two weekly flights set to launch April 1, 2026. This connection is a major milestone for Lithuania, as it strengthens ties between the Baltic States and the European Union’s eastern neighbors. Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, is a city with a fascinating mix of Eastern European culture, Soviet history, and local traditions. This new route will open doors for travelers looking to explore Moldova’s rich heritage, including its famous wine regions and stunning landscapes.
The new Vilnius-Chisinau service also offers Lithuanian businesses better access to the growing Moldovan market, strengthening trade ties and cultural exchange between the two nations. As airBaltic continues to expand its reach, this route provides Lithuanian travelers with the opportunity to visit Moldova and further connect Eastern Europe. This flight is perfect for those looking for a unique travel destination just outside the traditional Western European hotspots.
Vilnius to Zurich: Air Baltic Brings Switzerland’s Financial Hub Closer to Lithuania
Starting May 3, 2026, airBaltic will also begin operating three weekly flights between Vilnius and Zurich, Switzerland’s financial powerhouse. Zurich, known for its financial institutions, cutting-edge technology, and beautiful surroundings, is a key destination for Lithuanian business executives, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts alike. With this new route, Lithuania and Switzerland are now more closely connected than ever before, offering Lithuanian passengers direct access to Zurich’s world-class business hubs, luxury shopping, and breathtaking Alpine landscapes.
Zurich is also one of Europe’s most affluent and cosmopolitan cities, making it a prime destination for Lithuanian travelers looking to experience Swiss culture, fine dining, and high-end experiences. Whether you’re looking for business opportunities, winter sports, or simply a weekend getaway, Vilnius-Zurich flights will offer an incredible gateway to Switzerland’s riches, making it a crucial connection for airBaltic’s expanding European network.
airBaltic’s Growth: Expanding Networks and More Options for the Baltic States
With these exciting new routes, airBaltic continues its mission to connect the Baltic States with some of Europe’s most important cities, offering more flexibility and convenience for travelers. These four new routes are part of airBaltic’s broader network expansion that also includes resumed services from Riga to Aberdeen, Belgrade, and Yerevan, and from Tallinn to Oslo. As airBaltic grows, the airline is enhancing seat capacity by 12% in Riga, 11% in Tallinn, and 21% in Lithuania — a clear indication of the airline’s commitment to offering more destinations and better connectivity for its passengers.
The new services reflect airBaltic’s commitment to providing travelers with more options, faster connections, and greater flexibility when flying within Europe. As the airline expands its reach, both business travelers and tourists will benefit from enhanced service, more convenient flight times, and better access to cities in Northern, Eastern, and Western Europe.
