airBaltic suspends Riga-Dubai route as Middle East disruptions affect winter plans
Passengers can seek refunds, destination changes or partner airline connections
DUBAI – Latvian airline airBaltic has removed its direct flights between Riga and Dubai from its winter 2026/2027 schedule.
The decision follows an assessment of several factors, including the current situation in the Middle East and potential operational restrictions affecting the routes normally used for services to and from Dubai. The airline said passenger, crew and operational safety remains its highest priority.
The suspension means travellers will no longer have a nonstop airBaltic option between the Latvian capital and Dubai during the upcoming winter season. However, the airline said connectivity between the two cities will continue through partner airlines under interline arrangements.
Passenger options
Passengers holding active bookings for the affected flights will be offered several alternatives. These include requesting a refund, changing their destination or being rebooked on connecting services operated by partner airlines.
Travellers who purchased their tickets directly from airBaltic will be contacted individually with information about their bookings and the available alternatives. Those who booked through travel agencies have been advised to contact their respective agents to arrange changes to their itineraries.
airBaltic said passengers requiring additional assistance can contact its customer service team for support with their bookings.
The airline also stressed that the withdrawal of the nonstop service does not mean the Riga-Dubai connection will disappear entirely. Partner airlines will continue to provide indirect travel options between the two destinations while airBaltic keeps monitoring developments in the region.
Schedule changes
The airline said its network will continue to be reviewed in response to demand, operational considerations and the wider geopolitical and aviation environment. Potential restrictions affecting established flight routings were among the factors considered in the decision to remove the direct Dubai service.
The move also comes as airBaltic makes wider operational adjustments as it works to improve its financial position. The airline recently entered Chapter 11 proceedings, adding another dimension to its ongoing review of operations and network planning.
airBaltic, Latvia’s flag carrier, connects the Baltic region with destinations across Europe and beyond. The airline operates a fleet primarily comprising Airbus A220-300 aircraft and has continued expanding technology and onboard services, including the introduction of free high-speed Starlink internet in 2025.