International Airports:
| Airport Name | City | ICAO Code | IATA Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riga International Airport | Riga | EVRA | RIX |
| Liepāja International Airport | Liepāja | EVLA | LPX |
| Ventspils International Airport | Ventspils | EVVA | VNT |
Domestic Airports:
| Airport Name | City | ICAO Code | IATA Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daugavpils International Airport | Daugavpils | EVDA | DGP |
| Jūrmala Airport | Tukums | EVJA | |
| Rezekne Airport | Rēzekne | EVNA | |
| Spilve Airport | Riga | EVRS |
Note: Some airports, such as Jūrmala Airport, do not have an IATA code.
Latvia Airports: Modernisation Plans and Passenger Growth Trends
Latvia, a Baltic nation in Northern Europe, boasts a network of airports serving both domestic and international travellers. The country’s aviation infrastructure plays a crucial role in connecting Latvia to the rest of the world.
Riga International Airport stands as the primary gateway for air travel in Latvia, handling the majority of international flights. This bustling hub serves as the home base for the national carrier, Air Baltic, and welcomes numerous other airlines from across Europe and beyond.
While Riga Airport dominates Latvia’s air traffic, the country is home to several other airports scattered throughout its regions. These smaller airfields cater to domestic flights, private aviation, and specialised services, ensuring connectivity for Latvia’s diverse communities and industries.
Major Airports of Latvia
Latvia has four main international airports serving different regions of the country. These airports provide vital transport links for both domestic and international travellers.
Riga International Airport
Riga International Airport is Latvia’s largest and busiest airport. Located just 10 km west of Riga, it serves as the main hub for Air Baltic, the national flag carrier. The airport’s IATA code is RIX and its ICAO code is EVRA.
Riga Airport handles over 7 million passengers annually. It offers flights to more than 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The airport has one main terminal with modern facilities including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges.
Airlines operating at Riga include Air Baltic, Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Lufthansa. The airport is well-connected to Riga city centre by public buses and taxis. A train link is also planned for the future.
Liepāja International Airport
Liepāja International Airport is located in western Latvia, 5 km northeast of Liepāja city. It has an IATA code of LPX and an ICAO code of EVLA. The airport mainly serves charter and general aviation flights.
The airport has a single runway and a small terminal building. It can handle aircraft up to the size of Boeing 737s. Regular scheduled flights are limited, but charter flights operate to destinations like Riga and Moscow during the summer season.
Liepāja Airport plays an important role in regional development and tourism. The local government is working to attract more airlines and increase passenger numbers.
Ventspils International Airport
Ventspils International Airport is situated in northwestern Latvia, 5 km southeast of Ventspils city. Its IATA code is VTS and its ICAO code is EVVA. The airport primarily serves general aviation and charter flights.
The airport has a 2,000-metre runway capable of handling medium-sized aircraft. Facilities include a small passenger terminal and aircraft maintenance services. There are currently no scheduled commercial flights operating from Ventspils.
The airport is important for the region’s economy, supporting business travel and potential tourism growth. Local authorities are exploring options to develop regular passenger services in the future.
Daugavpils International Airport
Daugavpils International Airport is located in southeastern Latvia, 12 km northeast of Daugavpils city. It has an IATA code of DGP and an ICAO code of EVDA. The airport mainly caters to general aviation and occasional charter flights.
The airport features a 2,500-metre runway suitable for various aircraft types. It has a small terminal building and basic passenger facilities. There are currently no scheduled commercial flights operating from Daugavpils.
The airport serves as an important transport link for the Latgale region. Local officials are working to attract low-cost carriers and develop regular passenger services to boost tourism and economic growth in the area.
Regional and Military Air Transport
Latvia has several regional airports and former military air bases that play a role in its aviation infrastructure. These facilities support both civilian and military air transport needs across the country.
Jūrmala Airport
Jūrmala Airport is a small regional airport located near the popular coastal resort city of Jūrmala. The airport sits about 50 km west of Riga, Latvia’s capital. It mainly serves private and charter flights.
The airport occupies part of a former Soviet military base. Its single runway is 2,000 meters long, allowing it to handle small to medium-sized aircraft. While not currently used for scheduled passenger services, there are plans to develop Jūrmala Airport further.
Local officials hope to attract low-cost carriers and boost tourism to the area. The airport’s proximity to Jūrmala’s beaches and spas makes it an appealing gateway for visitors.
Spilve Airport
Spilve Airport is a historic airfield on the outskirts of Riga. It served as the city’s main airport from the 1920s until the 1970s, when Riga International Airport took over commercial flights.
The airport has a rich aviation heritage. Its striking terminal building, completed in 1954, is considered an excellent example of Stalinist architecture. Today, Spilve Airport is used for general aviation and flight training.
Small private planes and flying clubs operate from its grass runway. The airport also hosts air shows and other aviation events, keeping its legacy alive for new generations of aviation enthusiasts.
Military Air Bases
Latvia maintains several military air bases to support its national defence and NATO commitments. These facilities are crucial for air policing and rapid response capabilities.
Lielvārde Air Base is the primary military airfield in Latvia. It underwent major upgrades to meet NATO standards and now serves as a key forward operating base for allied air forces.
Jelgava Air Base, while no longer active, remains part of Latvia’s military infrastructure. Other former Soviet air bases have been repurposed or are in various states of use.
The military air bases bolster Latvia’s ability to defend its borders with Estonia, Lithuania, and other neighbouring countries. They also support joint exercises with NATO partners, enhancing regional security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Latvia has several airports serving both domestic and international travellers. These airports connect the country to various destinations and offer different transportation options for visitors.
What are the major airports located in Latvia?
Latvia’s main airport is Riga International Airport. It’s the largest and busiest in the country. Other airports include Liepāja International Airport and Daugavpils International Airport.
What is the international airport code for Riga?
The international airport code for Riga International Airport is RIX. This code is used by airlines and booking systems worldwide to identify the airport.
Which airlines operate out of the main Latvian airport?
Many airlines fly from Riga International Airport. These include Latvian national carrier airBaltic, as well as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Finnair.
From which UK airports can one fly directly to Latvia?
Direct flights to Latvia from the UK typically depart from London airports like Stansted and Gatwick. Some airlines may also offer seasonal routes from other UK cities.
What transportation options are available from Riga Airport to the city centre?
Travellers can take buses, taxis, or hire cars to reach Riga’s city centre from the airport. Bus route 22 runs frequently between the airport and downtown Riga.
Where can I find a map detailing the locations of Latvian airports?
Maps showing Latvian airports can be found on aviation websites and official Latvian tourism portals. These maps help travellers plan their journeys and understand the country’s airport network.
