airBaltic celebrates milestone in construction of Baltic Cargo Hub

Latvian national airline airBaltic, in collaboration with UPB Nams, the Ozola un Bula architect office, and RIX Riga Airport, marked a significant milestone in the development of the Baltic Cargo Hub by inserting a time capsule.

The Baltic Cargo Hub, poised to become the largest dedicated air cargo handling centre in the Baltics, will reinforce RIX Riga Airport's stature as a premier air cargo hub. Designed with direct apron access, the facility aims to streamline cargo import, export and transit operations.

Martin Gauss, CEO and President of airBaltic, said: “In 2023, airBaltic delivered over 9,400 tonnes of cargo and mail, maintaining our position as the largest air cargo and mail carrier at RIX Riga Airport. However, with the upcoming replacement of our existing cargo hangar by the Rail Baltica railway track, the construction of the new Baltic Cargo Hub, marks an important development. This state-of-the-art facility will handle up to 45 000 tonnes of cargo annually and cover 6,895 m², making it the largest in Latvia and a leader in the Baltics. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, this project sets a new standard in air cargo handling, promoting economic growth. The Baltic Cargo Hub represents our commitment to innovation and development, ensuring a prosperous future for airBaltic and the region.”

The new Baltic Cargo Hub will span 6,895 m², featuring specialised zones for cargo and offices equipped with state-of-the-art semi-automatic Material Handling Systems to enhance operational efficiency for various cargo types. It will incorporate temperature-controlled chambers for sensitive materials such as pharmaceuticals, alongside facilities for hazardous goods, live animals, and high-value items. Moreover, the hub will integrate essential services including the Food and Veterinary Service and a Customs checkpoint. Employing Building Information Modelling (BIM) for sustainable construction, the project aims for BREEAM certification and is slated for completion within 12 months.