Air Baltic cuts onboard amenities, crew lounge access in cost drive

Air Baltic is trimming onboard supplies and crew perks as part of a cost-cutting push following its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, according to an internal document cited by Bloomberg. From 1 October, sick bags will no longer be part of the standard seat-pocket equipment. About 50 will be kept at the rear of the cabin and handed out only on request.

The Latvian carrier is also removing disinfection gel and tissues from lavatories and waste bags from the cockpit. Where airport cleaning services are reduced, cabin crew on some aircraft are to clear rubbish themselves, and flight attendants are to collect the cockpit crew's meal trays after service. Since last week, crews have not been allowed to spend waiting time between flights in business lounges, as the airline pays for each visit.

Air Baltic said the changes comply with safety and regulatory requirements and reflect common industry practice. Its Airbus aircraft can carry around 150 passengers, the report said. The airline filed for creditor protection under Chapter 11 in New York last week and has also scaled back fleet plans, cutting the number of Airbus A220s it had previously targeted for 2031.