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airBaltic chairman Klāvs Vasks announces resignation amid strategic developments

airBaltic chairman Klāvs Vasks announces resignation amid strategic developments
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airBaltic | Wikimedia

Klāvs Vasks, the Chair of the Supervisory Board at airBaltic, has announced his resignation effective February 11. In a LinkedIn post, Vasks described his tenure as a "crazy rollercoaster ride" over the past 18 months, highlighting both challenges and successes.

During this period, airBaltic attracted an unspecified strategic investor and advanced its initial public offering (IPO) process. Vasks emphasized the importance of airBaltic to Latvia's economy, stating that efforts were made to change political approaches for asset development crucial to the country.

A report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) revealed that Latvia's aviation sector directly employs around 8,600 people and contributed $452.3 million to the economy in 2023. The broader impact is estimated at $1.9 billion, supporting 36,600 jobs and accounting for 4.4% of Latvia's GDP.

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Vasks expressed pride in airBaltic's achievements but voiced frustration with Latvia's political climate. He criticized the system for focusing on blame rather than responsibility and decision-making. Despite these challenges, he leaves with optimism about airBaltic's future.

Negotiations with a strategic investor are ongoing, although previous reports suggested Lufthansa Group might acquire a minority stake in airBaltic. The airline has collaborated closely with Lufthansa Group airlines through wet lease services.

In Q3 2024, airBaltic operated numerous flights for Eurowings, Lufthansa, and SWISS. Their partnership was extended for three more years starting summer 2025, involving up to 21 Airbus A220-300 aircraft operated by airBaltic on behalf of Lufthansa Group airlines.

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