airBaltic expects 500 to 700 job cuts under new business plan

airBaltic could cut between 500 and 700 jobs, spread across its bases in Riga, Vilnius and Tallinn. The carrier employs about 3,000 people across the Baltics, according to the company.

The figure comes from a business plan announced in August 2026 that puts what the airline calls financial stability first and growth second. A spokesperson said the range reflects continuing talks with trade unions over possible reduced workloads for pilots and cabin crew, plus work on new organisational structures for the rest of the company.

No individual decisions have been taken, the spokesperson said, and it would be premature to give figures for individual bases, functions or employee groups. The airline calls the number a current estimate that may change as the process continues.

Chief executive Erno Hildén said the airline recognises the process is important and sensitive for the whole team, and that its priority is to handle it with transparency, respect and care while keeping employees informed. No final decisions had been made about individual employees, he said, and the company would engage directly with colleagues as next steps are settled.

The plan also covers a more focused network centred on Riga, a smaller all-Airbus A220-300 fleet, stronger year-round ACMI partnerships and improved operational efficiency. By the end of 2026, airBaltic expects to cut its fleet of 54 A220-300s to 36 aircraft, with gradual growth to around 40 by 2031.