airBaltic, Latvia's national carrier, is implementing significant cost-cutting measures as it undergoes restructuring under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Starting from 1 October 2026, the airline will no longer place sick bags in the seat pockets of its aircraft. Instead, around 50 sick bags will be stored at the rear of each plane and issued upon request, aligning with safety and regulatory standards.
The airline has also announced additional reductions, including the removal of hand sanitiser and tissues from lavatories, cockpit trash bags, and restrictions on crew access to business lounges during layovers. These measures are part of a broader effort to optimize operational costs amid financial pressures resulting from fleet issues, rising fuel costs, and lost profitable routes.
First reported by Bloomberg on 25 September and confirmed by internal documents, the restructuring aims to streamline operations amidst ongoing financial challenges. airBaltic's fleet, primarily consisting of Airbus A220-300 aircraft, is planned to decrease from over 50 to 36 units by the end of 2026. Flight cancellations and fleet reductions are expected to follow, as the airline seeks to stabilize its finances.
"Under court supervision and with protection from creditor claims, this process provides a clear framework and timetable for reaching agreements with creditors," stated Andrejs Martinovs, chairman of the airline's supervisory board. Despite these hardships, the airline emphasizes that the changes are compliant with safety standards and reflect common industry practices. The restructuring is anticipated to conclude by June 2027, allowing the carrier to emerge financially healthier.
