Air Baltic (IATA: BT), Latvia’s national carrier and a leading regional airline, connects Tbilisi Airport (TBS) with key cities in the Baltic region and Europe. Known for its affordable fares, modern fleet, and efficient operations, Air Baltic offers Georgian travelers convenient access to Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and beyond. This article explores Air Baltic’s operations in Tbilisi, routes, services, and its role in fostering tourism and business between Georgia and Europe.
About Air Baltic
Founded in 1995, Air Baltic is headquartered in Riga, Latvia, and operates as a hybrid airline, blending the efficiency of a low-cost carrier with the comfort of full-service airlines. Air Baltic focuses on point-to-point travel and hub-and-spoke operations through its primary hub at Riga International Airport (RIX). With a reputation for punctuality, safety, and service quality, Air Baltic plays a key role in linking the Baltics with Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
Air Baltic Operations in Tbilisi
Air Baltic offers direct flights between Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) and Riga International Airport (RIX), providing Georgian travelers with a convenient gateway to the Baltics and Scandinavia. The Tbilisi-Riga route operates seasonally and caters to both leisure and business travelers. Passengers can also access connecting flights from Riga to popular European cities such as:
- Stockholm, Sweden
- Oslo, Norway
- Copenhagen, Denmark
- Berlin, Germany
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
These connections make Air Baltic an ideal choice for Georgian travelers seeking to explore northern Europe and the Baltic states.
Fleet and Aircraft
Air Baltic operates one of the youngest fleets in Europe, focusing entirely on the Airbus A220-300 aircraft. Known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort, the Airbus A220-300 offers:
- Comfortable economy class seats with more legroom.
- Quieter cabins and advanced in-flight technology.
This aircraft type is used on Air Baltic’s Tbilisi-Riga route, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for passengers.
Services and Passenger Experience
Air Baltic offers a variety of customizable services to meet the needs of different travelers, from budget-conscious passengers to those seeking premium experiences.
Fare Options
- Green: Basic fare covering only the flight; additional services like baggage are available for purchase.
- Green Plus: Includes a checked baggage allowance and seat selection.
- Business Class: Offers priority services, access to lounges, and premium dining options.
In-Flight Services
- Complimentary snacks and beverages in business class.
- Buy-on-board menu with a selection of snacks, meals, and drinks for economy passengers.
- In-flight entertainment via personal devices, accessible through Air Baltic’s mobile app.
Baggage Policy
Air Baltic offers a flexible baggage policy to suit travelers’ needs:
- Economy Class (Green Plus): One checked bag up to 23 kg and one carry-on item.
- Business Class: Two checked bags, each up to 32 kg, plus a carry-on item.
Additional baggage allowance is available for purchase at the time of booking or at the airport.
Impact on Georgian Tourism and Economy
Air Baltic plays an important role in promoting tourism and business travel between Georgia and the Baltic states. The direct connection between Tbilisi and Riga encourages inbound tourism from Latvia and other Baltic countries, bringing visitors eager to explore Georgia’s natural beauty, cuisine, and cultural heritage.
For Georgian travelers, the affordable fares and smooth connections offered by Air Baltic open up new opportunities to explore the Baltic region and northern Europe. The airline also supports business travel, helping to foster trade relations and investment opportunities between Georgia and the Baltic region.
Customer Feedback and Passenger Experience
Passengers flying Air Baltic from Tbilisi appreciate the airline’s modern fleet, punctuality, and friendly staff. The comfortable seating and smooth boarding process also contribute to positive travel experiences. However, some passengers note that additional fees for services, such as checked baggage or onboard meals, are common, making it important to plan bookings carefully.
Overall, Air Baltic is regarded as a reliable and efficient carrier, offering excellent value for money.
Future Prospects and Expansion
As demand for travel between Georgia and Europe grows, Air Baltic is well-positioned to expand its operations. Future developments could include:
- Increasing flight frequencies between Tbilisi and Riga during peak travel seasons.
- Introducing new routes to other Baltic destinations, such as Vilnius or Tallinn.
- Strengthening partnerships with Georgian travel agencies to offer more travel packages and tours.
Air Baltic plays a key role in connecting Tbilisi with Riga and northern Europe, offering affordable and reliable travel options for Georgian passengers. With its modern fleet, flexible services, and growing network, the airline provides excellent opportunities for leisure and business travel between Georgia and the Baltics. As Air Baltic continues to expand, it will enhance Georgia’s connectivity and foster stronger relations with Europe and beyond.