At the beginning of February, Latvian flag carrier airBaltic took delivery of its first aircraft of 2026, welcoming a brand-new Airbus A220-300 registered YL-BTC at its Riga base. The aircraft is the 53rd A220-300 in the airline’s fleet, further reinforcing airBaltic’s position as the world’s largest operator of this aircraft type.
The new delivery strengthens airBaltic’s single-type fleet strategy, with the Airbus A220-300 deployed across the airline’s network to serve a broad mix of short- and longer-haul routes. In addition to scheduled services, the aircraft also supports airBaltic’s ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) operations with partner airlines in other European markets, enabling flexible capacity management and efficient fleet utilisation in line with seasonal demand.
A proven workhorse for the airline
Since introducing the Airbus A220-300 in 2016, airBaltic has carried more than 24 million passengers on the type, operating around 250,000 flights and accumulating over 551,000 flight hours. These figures underline the aircraft’s versatility and suitability for the airline’s diverse route structure.
From a passenger perspective, the A220-300 offers notable comfort advantages, including wider seats, larger windows and increased overhead baggage space. Operationally, the aircraft delivers significantly lower noise levels and reduced CO? and NOx emissions compared with previous-generation aircraft, supporting airBaltic’s efficiency and sustainability objectives.
Connectivity and innovation on board
airBaltic continues to differentiate its onboard product through connectivity. In 2025, the airline became the first European carrier to introduce free high-speed SpaceX Starlink internet across its fleet. More than 20 aircraft are already equipped with the technology, with installations ongoing, allowing passengers to remain connected from boarding to landing.
Connecting the Baltics to the world
Over the past three decades, airBaltic has grown into a globally recognised carrier and a key enabler of regional connectivity. Today, the airline links the Baltic States to around 80 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and the Caucasus, providing essential air transport infrastructure for the region.
With the arrival of YL-BTC, airBaltic continues to build momentum in 2026, expanding its modern A220 fleet while maintaining a strong focus on efficiency, passenger experience and sustainable growth.