Monday, September 16, 2024 In a recent appearance on Bloomberg TV’s The Pulse , hosted by Francine Lacqua, Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic , shed light on the airline’s ambitious plans for expansion and a potential Initial Public Offering (IPO). The interview provided key insights into the future of the Latvian national airline, which has been gaining attention in the aviation sector. Gauss revealed that airBaltic is gearing up for a major growth phase, with plans to double its Airbus A220-300 fleet from its current size to 100 aircraft by the year 2030.
The airline sees the A220-300 as a crucial asset, praised for its efficiency and adaptability, and central to its fleet expansion strategy. This bold move is set to significantly increase airBaltic’s operational capacity and broaden its international network. Partnerships are also playing a critical role in airBaltic’s future.
Gauss highlighted an extended wet-lease agreement with the Lufthansa Group as a key strategic move. Beginning in summer 2025, up to 21 airBaltic A220-300 aircraft will be leased to operate flights on behalf of Lufthansa, cementing a three-year partnership that marks a deepening collaboration between the two airlines. On the topic of a potential IPO, Gauss indicated that airBaltic is in the preparatory stages, positioning itself for the possibility of going public.
He confirmed that discussions with a strategic investor are ongoing, but remained tight-lipped on specifics, suggesting that more details will emerge in due course. The Pulse , hosted by the well-regarded Francine Lacqua, is known for its engaging interviews with influential leaders in business, politics, and finance. Lacqua has previously conducted high-profile interviews with figures such as Emmanuel Macron, Christine Lagarde, and Bill Gates, making her show a respected platform for in-depth industry analysis.
airBaltic currently operates over 130 routes, offering flights from its hubs in Riga, Tallinn, Vilnius, and Tampere. The airline connects travelers to a variety of destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus, further solidifying its position as a key player in the region’s aviation market. As the company looks to scale its operations, these developments are expected to create new opportunities and strengthen airBaltic’s standing in the competitive global aviation industry.
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