Airport in Riga declares significant contract offer
Renovation of Riga Airport's Apron 4 Underway
The Reconstruction of Apron 4 at Riga International Airport is currently in progress, with the cargo apron temporarily closed for airplane traffic from May 12 to July 4, 2025 [1]. This closure is part of ongoing modernization efforts aimed at improving airport infrastructure.
The project, titled the "Reconstruction of Apron 4 at State Joint Stock Company 'Riga International Airport'", includes the renovation of over 80,000 square metres of the apron's hard surface. Ten different aircraft stands for Class A - E aircraft will be created, along with storage areas for aircraft servicing equipment [1].
In addition, the project aims to provide additional necessary aircraft stands, install an aerodrome lighting system, and set up taxiing and service roads. A new video surveillance system and a rainwater drainage system will also be installed to ensure safety and efficiency [1].
The electrical substation for Apron 4 has two independent feeds to ensure the apron's lighting and the power supply for aircraft stands. This feature is crucial for maintaining smooth operations during the reconstruction [1].
The project is funded by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) and contributes to military mobility [1]. It is worth noting that Riga Airport currently handles 37% of air cargo in the Baltic States [1].
In 2020, a newly constructed specialized cargo service apron became operational in the area of Aprons 4 and 5. This development was followed by the opening of DHL's regional shipment processing and logistics centre in 2021 [1]. airBaltic has also built a cargo processing logistics centre named Baltic Cargo Hub at Riga Airport [1].
A Cargo City is being developed around Aprons 4 and 5 as part of Riga Airport's development strategy. However, specific updates on the progress of the Cargo City project and airBaltic's Baltic Cargo Hub are not readily available as of August 2025 [1]. The closure of Apron 4, which serves cargo operations, implies active refurbishment of cargo handling areas that likely supports these initiatives [1].
The expected completion date for the reconstruction of Apron 4 is at the end of 2027 [1]. The project's successful completion is expected to improve capacity and efficiency for the Baltic region's air freight sector, making Riga Airport a key player in the region's cargo operations.
[1] Source: Riga International Airport official website and various news articles.
- The reconstruction project of Apron 4 at Riga International Airport, funded by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), also includes installing a new video surveillance system and a rainwater drainage system, demonstrating a commitment to both environmental science and infrastructure development.
- As part of the ongoing modernization efforts, the project aims to create ten different aircraft stands for Class A - E aircraft, in addition to the installation of an aerodrome lighting system, taxiing and service roads, and the development of the Cargo City, reflecting the airport's role in industry and transportation.
- Upon completion in late 2027, the improved Apron 4 is expected to significantly contribute to the region's environmental-science and finance sectors, particularly in the air cargo industry, given that Riga Airport currently handles 37% of air cargo in the Baltic States.
