Dubai. Photo: Shutterstock Latvian airline airBaltic is discontinuing its direct flights between Riga and Dubai for the upcoming winter 2026/2027 season, citing the situation in the region and possible operational restrictions affecting the routes normally used for flights to and from the United Arab Emirates.
Riga, Latvia. Photo: ShutterstockThe airline, which recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to restructure its liabilities, announced the change on September 23, saying it had reviewed several factors before deciding to remove the nonstop service from its winter schedule.
airBaltic said it would continue monitoring developments and adjust its network according to demand, operational considerations and the wider geopolitical and aviation environment.
As a reminder, German airline Condor also made a similar announcement regarding daily flights from Berlin and Stuttgart to Dubai in the winter.
For passengers who already hold tickets on affected flights, airBaltic will offer several alternatives. These include rebooking to another airBaltic destination, receiving a refund, or traveling to Dubai on connecting services operated in cooperation with partner airlines.
Air Baltic. Photo: Sergio Torres Parra, ShutterstockPassengers who booked directly with airBaltic will be contacted individually with information about their booking and the available options. Those who purchased tickets through a travel agency should contact the agency handling their reservation.
The airline also said that although it will no longer operate the direct Riga-Dubai service during the affected winter schedule, it intends to maintain connectivity between the two cities through partner airlines.
The decision comes as airlines continue to adjust operations in response to changing conditions affecting routes in and around the Middle East. airBaltic specifically pointed to potential restrictions on the routings normally used for flights to and from Dubai.
For travelers, the change means that passengers booked on affected nonstop services may need to change their plans, depending on the alternative offered for their individual reservation. The option of connecting flights means the Riga-Dubai city pair will remain available, although without airBaltic's own direct operation.
The airline said passenger, crew and operational safety remain its highest priority as it evaluates the situation.
The route change also comes during a period of wider adjustments at airBaltic. The airline has been reviewing its network and schedule as part of its broader operational planning, while continuing to serve Riga as its main hub.
Passengers requiring additional assistance can contact airBaltic through the airline's customer service channels. Those who booked through travel agencies should continue to work through their respective agents.