On May 3, 2026, Latvian airline Air Baltic launched a new direct service between the Lithuanian capital Vilnius and the financial center of Zurich. Modern Airbus A220-300 aircraft, known for their efficiency on European medium-haul routes, will be used on this route.
While the route will initially be served twice weekly in May, the summer flight schedule foresees an increase to three weekly frequencies from June onwards. This strategic expansion aims to improve accessibility to the Baltic states for international business travelers and, at the same time, provide Swiss tourists with direct access to Lithuania's cultural centers.
The decision to expand the route network comes against the backdrop of a massive increase in passenger numbers at Vilnius Airport. In the first quarter of 2026, the Lithuanian capital's airport recorded more than one million passengers within three months for the first time, a record result in the airport's history. Industry analyses show that demand for point-to-point connections within Europe is growing steadily. For Zurich Airport, the new connection strengthens its role as a hub, as Air Baltic passengers will be able to connect there to the global network of Swiss and other partner airlines.
Representatives from the Lithuanian Ministry of Transport and the airport operator emphasized the economic importance of the new route. The direct connection to Zurich will not only strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between Lithuania and Switzerland, but also create investment incentives for the financial sector. With this move, Air Baltic consolidates its position as market leader in the Baltic States and continues its expansion from its base in Vilnius. In addition to Zurich, other major European cities have already been added to the flight schedule this year to meet the increasing demand for mobility in the region.
The operational implementation of the connection takes place at times optimized for both weekend trips and business appointments. Experts point out that the improved connectivity of the Baltic states also increases Lithuania's attractiveness for international congresses and trade fairs. Despite the geopolitically complex situation in Eastern Europe, civil air traffic in the Baltic states remains on a growth trajectory, supported by Air Baltic's ongoing fleet modernization. The airline plans to base additional aircraft in Vilnius by the end of the fiscal year to flexibly adjust capacity on high-traffic routes.