list of airports in Latvia

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Latvia, a beautiful Baltic nation, boasts a network of airports serving both international and domestic travel needs. While Riga International Airport is the dominant gateway, several smaller airfields play a vital role in regional connectivity, business aviation, and recreational flying. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all the airports in Latvia, detailing their functions, facilities, and what you can expect when flying to or from them.

Riga International Airport (RIX): The Main Hub

Riga International Airport (RIX), officially known as Rīgas Starptautiskā Lidosta, is by far the largest and most important airport in Latvia. Located just 4km southwest of Riga, the capital city, it serves as the primary hub for airBaltic, the Latvian flag carrier, and connects Latvia to a vast network of destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America.

RIX is a modern airport with three passenger terminals, a dedicated cargo terminal, and extensive ground handling services. It consistently receives awards for its efficiency and passenger experience. Beyond passenger flights, RIX handles significant cargo traffic, contributing to Latvia’s economic activity. Recent expansions and upgrades continue to enhance its capacity and facilities. Expect a range of amenities including shops, restaurants, currency exchange, and comfortable lounges.

Ventspils Airport (VNT): Regional Connectivity & Beyond

Ventspils Airport (VNT), situated on the Baltic Sea coast, is the second largest airport in Latvia. While it handles some passenger traffic, primarily seasonal charter flights, its core function revolves around cargo operations, aircraft maintenance, and aviation training.

Ventspils Airport has a long runway capable of accommodating larger aircraft and is a popular choice for aircraft storage and dismantling. It also plays a crucial role in supporting the nearby port of Ventspils, facilitating the swift transport of goods. The airport is actively developing its infrastructure to attract more business and potentially expand its passenger services in the future.

Liepāja Airport (LPX): A Growing Regional Airport

Liepāja Airport (LPX), located in the western part of Latvia, is experiencing a period of growth and redevelopment. Historically used for military purposes, it has been transitioning towards civilian operations.

Currently, Liepāja Airport primarily serves general aviation, business flights, and is a base for aviation training. However, there are ambitious plans to develop LPX into a regional passenger airport, with potential routes to key European cities. The airport benefits from its strategic location and is seen as a key component in the development of the Kurzeme region.

Daugavpils Airport (DGP): Supporting Local Industries

Daugavpils Airport (DGP), located in southeastern Latvia, is a smaller airfield primarily focused on supporting local industries and providing services for general aviation.

It’s used for agricultural aviation, border patrol, and recreational flying. While passenger traffic is limited, DGP plays a vital role in the region’s economic activities. The airport is actively seeking opportunities to attract investment and expand its services.

Other Airports and Airfields in Latvia

Beyond the four main airports, Latvia has a number of smaller airfields and airstrips catering to recreational flying, agricultural work, and emergency services. These include:

  • Jūrkalne Airfield: Primarily used for ultralight aircraft and recreational flying.

  • Spīķeri Airfield: A small airfield near Riga, used for light aircraft and training.

  • Ogre Airfield: Supports agricultural aviation and recreational flying.

  • Bauska Airfield: Used for light aircraft and gliding.

  • Kuldīga Airfield: Primarily for agricultural and recreational purposes.

Latvian Airports: A Quick Reference Table

Airport Code Airport Name City Type Primary Use
RIX Riga International Airport Riga International Passenger & Cargo
VNT Ventspils Airport Ventspils Regional Cargo, Maintenance, Training
LPX Liepāja Airport Liepāja Regional General Aviation, Training
DGP Daugavpils Airport Daugavpils Regional/Local General Aviation, Agriculture
JKL Jūrkalne Airfield Jūrkalne Private/Recreational Ultralight Flying
SPK Spīķeri Airfield Riga Private/Recreational Light Aircraft
OGR Ogre Airfield Ogre Private/Agricultural Agricultural Flying
BSK Bauska Airfield Bauska Private/Recreational Gliding, Light Aircraft
KDI Kuldīga Airfield Kuldīga Private/Agricultural Agricultural Flying

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which is the main international airport in Latvia?
A: Riga International Airport (RIX) is the main international airport.

Q2: Does Latvia have many large airports?
A: No, Latvia primarily has one large international airport (RIX) and a few smaller regional airports.

Q3: Is Liepāja Airport currently handling many passenger flights?
A: Currently, Liepāja Airport (LPX) handles limited passenger traffic, but is undergoing development with plans for expansion.

Q4: What is Ventspils Airport mainly used for?
A: Ventspils Airport (VNT) is primarily used for cargo operations, aircraft maintenance, and aviation training.

Q5: Are there opportunities for recreational flying in Latvia?
A: Yes, Latvia has several smaller airfields like Jūrkalne and Spīķeri that cater to recreational flying and ultralight aircraft.

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