airBaltic plans to cut about 300 pilots and cabin crew in bankruptcy

Bankrupt Latvian flag carrier airBaltic plans to lay off around 300 employees as it restructures, according to the Latvian Aviation Union (LAU). AirlineGeeks reported on 30 October 2026 that the union expects about 100 pilots and 200 cabin crew to be affected. The airline is currently operating its normal schedule.

What the union says

According to AirlineGeeks, the LAU represents pilots, cabin crew, aircraft technicians, office staff and other workers in Latvia's airline sector. It said airBaltic expects to dismiss roughly 100 pilots and 200 flight attendants.

The union strongly opposes the move and said it has not received the airline's assessment criteria for deciding which workers will go. In its words, "These are people's careers, livelihoods, and futures." It also called on the Latvian government to intervene. The report does not include a response from airBaltic, and the airline's own confirmation of the figures is not given.

Background to the restructuring

AirlineGeeks says airBaltic filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States in September. The carrier faces higher jet fuel prices and route disruption caused by conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

The airline has secured a commitment for €350 million (about $403.6 million) in debtor-in-possession financing. According to the report, airBaltic said this will be enough to support operations throughout the bankruptcy process.

What this means for travellers

• Flights are running as normal. AirlineGeeks reports that airBaltic is continuing to operate its normal schedule while the case proceeds.
• Network: the airline mainly serves Europe, but also flies to North Africa, the Middle East, Turkey and the Caucasus.
• Funding: the financing commitment is intended to cover operations during bankruptcy.

It is not yet known whether the crew reductions will lead to schedule cuts, or when any dismissals would take effect. Passengers with bookings should check their reservation through the airline before travel.

Sources: AirlineGeeks