Ryanair Reduces Riga Flights Amid Rising Airport Fees
Ryanair, the Irish low-cost carrier, is scaling back its flight schedule from Riga Airport this winter season, citing increased airport fees as the primary reason. The reduction includes a 20% decrease in passenger capacity – approximately 160,000 fewer seats – and the cancellation of flights to seven destinations.
Destinations Affected by Route Cancellations
Flights from Riga will no longer be available to the following cities during the winter season:
- Aarhus, Denmark
- Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Gdansk, Poland
- Gothenburg, Sweden
- Paris Beauvais Airport, France
- Memmingen, Germany
- Berlin, Germany
Rising Costs and Competitive Concerns
Ryanair’s commercial director, Jason McGuinness, stated that the decision to reduce the winter schedule is a direct result of rising airport fees, which have increased by 15% since Ryanair established a base in Riga in 2021. These increased costs make Riga Airport less competitive compared to other European hubs (BB.lv).
Ryanair’s Growth Plan and Fee Reduction Request
Ryanair presented a plan to the Latvian Ministry of Transport to double passenger traffic, potentially bringing $200 million in investment and 14 new routes over the next five years. However, McGuinness emphasized that this growth is contingent upon reductions in airport fees at Riga Airport (BB.lv).
Riga Airport’s Response and Capacity Outlook
Riga Airport acknowledges Ryanair’s notification regarding the reduction in destinations for the upcoming winter season. Despite the cuts, the airport projects an overall capacity increase of approximately 3-4% compared to the previous winter. Riga Airport notes that rates remained consistent until spring 2024, and the impact of new rates approved last year is less than one euro per passenger, representing an 8-10% increase (BB.lv).
Available Ryanair Routes from Riga
Despite the reductions, Ryanair continues to operate flights from Riga Airport. Passengers can locate a comprehensive list of available routes and schedules on the official Ryanair website and Riga Airport’s website. Currently, Ryanair offers 22 routes from Riga (FlightsFrom.com).