On May 10, Latvian airline airBaltic, together with UPB Nams, the architectural bureau Ozola and Bula, and RIX Riga Airport, marked a significant milestone in the construction of the Baltic Cargo Hub by laying a time capsule, reports DELFI.
Baltic Cargo Hub will become the largest specialized air cargo processing centre in the Baltics, reinforcing RIX Airport’s status as a leading air cargo hub. The new facility will have direct access to the cargo platform, which will expedite and simplify import, export, and transit processes.
”The Baltic Cargo Hub project is not just an innovative venture in the logistics industry but also the most advanced facility of its kind in the Baltic region. As the principal technical consultants for the client, this project presented a unique challenge for us. Our comprehensive approach, from concept development and engaging technology suppliers to full project support at all stages, enabled us to tackle the most complex technical aspects and modern logistics solutions. The project's uniqueness lies not only in its technical equipment and logistics solutions but also in its strategic location—adjacent to the runway—requiring the highest level of operational safety. We conducted extensive work, starting with the development of the technical assignment and conducting workshops and interviews with the client and their team to understand their long-term needs for the next 30 years. This allowed us to fully grasp the tasks and challenges presented by the highly specialized field of aviation logistics. We are now actively overseeing the technical aspects of the project's implementation, ensuring that Baltic Cargo Hub not only meets all contemporary requirements but also accommodates scalability and high traffic volumes. This project clearly demonstrates how our comprehensive solutions and expertise can bring the most ambitious ideas to life.
Sergejs FrolovsCEO of BLV Advisory Group
”In 2023, airBaltic transported over 9,400 tons of cargo and mail, maintaining its status as the largest air carrier of cargo and mail at RIX Riga Airport. However, with the upcoming demolition of the current cargo hangar to make way for Rail Baltica, the construction of the new Baltic Cargo Hub marks a significant milestone. This modern centre will handle up to 45,000 tons of cargo annually, with a total area of 6,895 m², making it the largest in Latvia and a leading facility in the Baltic states. Despite challenges related to the Covid-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions, this project sets new standards in air cargo transportation, contributing to economic growth. Baltic Cargo Hub is our commitment to fostering innovation and development, ensuring a successful future for airBaltic and the region.
Martins GaussCEO and President of airBaltic
The new Baltic Cargo Hub will take up a total area of 6,895 m², fearturing specialized cargo and office spaces, and a state-of-the-art semi-automated Material Handling System (MHS) to enhance the efficiency of processing all types of cargo. It will include temperature-controlled areas for sensitive materials such as pharmaceuticals, as well as facilities for hazardous goods, animals, and valuables. Additionally, the centre will integrate key functions of the Food and Veterinary Service and the customs control point. Building Information Modeling (BIM) will be used during construction to ensure sustainable development. The project will also receive BREEAM certification and is expected to be completed within 12 months.
airBaltic operates flights on more than 130 routes from Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius, Tampere, and seasonally from Gran Canaria, offering convenient connections within its network across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus region. The full list of airBaltic flights and tickets is available on the company website at www.airbaltic.com.
