Q. Thank you for joining our interview. I know you only recently joined airBaltic in the spring of 2023. Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers and tell us what drew you to join airBaltic? What are some of the aspects of airBaltic you enjoy the most working here?
I have over 25 years of experience in the airline industry, and I have worked with four different airlines in Norway. I was approached by airBaltic, a company you likely have heard of in the industry. It is an interesting and innovative airline that thinks outside the box, which also appeals to me. That is one of the major reasons for joining the company.
What is exciting about airBaltic is, first of all, it has a new and modern fleet. It is also a company that leads in many aspects of technology, including cryptocurrency integration, NFTs, and many more. It is clear that the company is headed in the right direction, and I am enthusiastic about being a part of its growth in the future. These aspects have made joining airBaltic a lot of fun.
Q. I am impressed by airBaltic’s use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). How do you see SAF and other sustainable aviation technologies playing a role in the future of the airline industry, and how is airBaltic working to reduce its other environmental impacts, such as carbon emissions and noise pollution?
The Airbus A220-300 is one of the most modern short-haul aircraft available with new engine technology. I would say that this is the most significant contribution we as a carrier can make. We aim to have the latest equipment and use SAF wherever it is available. However, SAF is not widely accessible around the world, even in Europe, and we are working on securing a consistent supply. We hope that it will become more cost-effective in the future as currently, it is three times more expensive than regular fuel. As a company, we are committed to making SAF more affordable.
Carbon emissions are of paramount importance. We have the right equipment – Airbus A220-300 – and we are working on various projects to explore sustainable practices not only in terms of reducing air pollution but also in implementing environmentally responsible measures on the ground. We are focused on promoting a sustainable mindset and behavior among the people at airBaltic.
Q. I understand that airBaltic is considering placing an order for more Airbus A220s. How do the new additions to the fleet contribute to the airline’s plans for route expansion and network development?
For airBaltic, it will open up more possibilities for exploring new bases outside the Baltics and closer cooperation with other airlines or ACMI arrangements.
Q. airBaltic has a plan to launch 14 new routes next summer. What is the competition like on these new routes, and what opportunities do you anticipate they will bring?
I believe there will always be competition on routes, whether they are direct or indirect, as there are always other carriers operating. We are continuously expanding our hub in Riga. This, in turn, allows us to offer many new routes, particularly to the Balkan region. We anticipate that these new routes will provide excellent connections to the Baltics, Finland, and Scandinavia. We have noticed significant traffic between these regions, which is the primary reason for launching these new routes.
Additionally, we have been exploring leisure destinations that do not face the same cost inflation as many traditional European destinations. Tivat (Montenegro) and Tirana (Albania), for example, are experiencing growth in their network, offering more affordable accommodation and living costs.
Furthermore, we are working on increasing brand awareness beyond the Baltics. We are venturing into the Scandinavian market with new routes to see if our brand gains recognition there.
Q. airBaltic currently operates flights to mainly Europe, Middle East and Africa. Any future plans that will expand its route to North America and even Asia?
The future will reveal itself, but it is probably not the Airbus A220 that will be flying there. It is hard to say for now.
Q. What creative features could airBaltic add to enhance the passenger experience and increase its cabin attractiveness?
I believe that our current product is good, but the Starlink project is likely to be the most creative and innovative.
Our Buy on board concept is also good. It promotes sustainability by reducing the need to carry excess food on the aircraft, which would otherwise go to waste. Having less food on board also leads to lower fuel consumption. Furthermore, our business class configuration with a free middle seat and other benefits included in the package is highly advantageous.
Q. Given that airBaltic has its roots in Latvia and offers flights from Lithuania and Estonia, would you be willing to share your top picks for places to explore and things to do in these countries and why?
I think the Baltics have many excellent and high-quality restaurants. These cities are hidden gourmet gems. When comparing prices to those in Norway, they are very affordable. The people in Riga are polite and always have a smile on their faces, which I really appreciate.
What is particularly nice is that they are relatively small cities, with everything within walking distance.
Q. As an SVP of an airline, you must be a frequent traveler. Could you share one memorable travel experience you have had?
For me, there are many memorable travel experiences, but I believe the most important aspect is what I take away from these trips. It is crucial for me to witness that everything is running smoothly – from airport operations to all related processes – ensuring that passengers are happy when flying with us. This is the most significant aspect I aim to observe during my journeys, and these are the moments I find most memorable when travelling.
Q. As an aviation expert, what factors do you prioritize when choosing an airline for your personal travels and which airline features do you pay particular attention to?
First of all, I prefer direct routes from where I am traveling, and the level of digitalization at the airport is very important to me. Going to the airport without any hassle is always a good experience. When I am travelling through more than two sectors in one trip, I try to find airports with smooth processes or, at the very least, ones where it is easy to navigate between terminals.
Q. Your message to our readers and why they should consider flying airBaltic for their next travels?
For those for whom an important aspect to consider is our environmental footprint, airBaltic stands out with one of the youngest fleets in Europe and reduced fuel consumption. Additionally, we offer a high-quality product, featuring a new and spacious cabin, creating the sensation of being on a larger aircraft even when flying on a single-aisle aircraft. Our extensive route network encompasses numerous exciting destinations that go beyond the mainstream, providing unique experiences.
Furthermore, if you are connecting from anywhere within Europe, we facilitate seamless connections through Riga, which is perfectly sized for quickly catching connecting flights.
All photographs credit: airBaltic
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I never heard of Air Baltic before but after reading this article I want to fly with them!
It’s a great interview and insight from Thomas. Do you consider to become our MAS ceo hehehe
If you ever find yourself in Albania and you are in need of a car rental, cria.al is your choice.