Riga. Photo: Shutterstock Ryanair continues to shift capacity between European markets in line with airport operating costs. The company announced that it will increase its operations from Riga in the winter of 2026, while in Estonia and Lithuania it plans significant capacity cuts.
According to the company's announcement published on September 17, Ryanair will operate two-based aircraft and 16 routes in Riga during the winter season, adding approximately 40,000 seats compared to the same period, an increase of approximately 6%. In addition, the company will increase the number of flights on ten existing routes, including Alicante, Barcelona and Milan-Bergamo.
The move comes after Riga Airport launched a new incentive program encouraging airlines to increase passenger numbers and capacity. The airport confirmed that the program has come into effect and includes discounts for companies that increase traffic or open new destinations.
Ryanair. Photo: ShutterstockAt the same time, Ryanair announced that its capacity in Estonia and Lithuania will be reduced by about 25% this winter, a total reduction of about 550,000 seats. The company attributes the decision to rising costs and fees at the airports in these countries. It said that aircraft and capacity are being transferred to markets where operating costs are more competitive, including Poland, Italy, Slovakia and Sweden.
Alongside the immediate changes, Ryanair has also unveiled a proposal for significant expansion in the three Baltic states over the next five years. The company says the plan could bring its operations in the region to 11 million seats a year, with 16 established aircraft and an estimated investment of around $1.6 billion.
However, the company sets a clear condition for this: reducing airport taxes and airport usage costs.
The move once again demonstrates Ryanair's strategy in Europe, quickly moving aircraft and capacity between countries and airports in line with costs, incentives and growth opportunities.