RIX Riga Airport today marked the start of the next stage of its passenger terminal expansion project with a ceremonial event at the Airport. The project will deliver a new, spacious and energy-efficient passenger terminal extension equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, significantly increasing terminal capacity, enhancing the passenger experience and providing the infrastructure necessary for the Airport’s future growth.
The planning and development stage of the project has now been completed, and preparatory works for construction will begin later this month. The project includes the expansion of the existing terminal through the construction of new check-in facilities, passenger waiting areas, a security screening zone, and a baggage reclaim hall. External areas surrounding the terminal building, including access roads and parking facilities, will also be redeveloped and upgraded. The introduction of new passenger service and security technologies will further improve comfort, efficiency, and the overall travel experience at the Airport.
The terminal expansion will add approximately 20,000 square metres of new building space. In addition, 29,500 square metres of roads, pavements, public spaces, and landscaped green areas will be developed. The new facilities will provide the capacity required to accommodate future passenger growth, addressing the limitations of the current terminal, which already exceeds its originally designed capacity.
The construction cost of the terminal expansion is estimated at EUR 98 million. Financing will be provided equally by three lenders: two international financial institutions, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Nordic Investment Bank (NIB), as well as OP Corporate Bank plc Latvian Branch, selected through a tender process. The financing was granted following a comprehensive assessment of Riga Airport’s development plans, business strategy, and creditworthiness. Independent due diligence was conducted both by the lenders and by international advisors engaged by the lenders.
In addition to financing the construction works, the funding package will support the installation of next-generation passenger service and aviation security technologies compliant with European Union standards. These investments will enable RIX Riga Airport to provide a new level of passenger experience while meeting the highest requirements for aviation security and accessibility. The total financing available to the Airport under the lending arrangements amounts to up to EUR 150 million.
The passenger terminal expansion is a long-term and carefully developed strategic project for Riga Airport. Its scale and complexity make it one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Latvia’s aviation sector. Together with our partners, we are implementing the project in a balanced and efficient manner. The expansion is already needed today, and its scope has been carefully designed to address passenger demand while taking into account regional economic development prospects and the current geopolitical environment. Our goal is to create infrastructure that meets future needs and provides Riga Airport with the flexibility to continue growing,” said Laila Odiņa, Chairperson of the Board of RIX Riga Airport.
Riga Airport is Latvia’s main gateway to the world and a vital part of the country’s transport infrastructure. Its development is important not only for providing passengers with a more convenient and high-quality travel experience, but also for Latvia’s competitiveness in the Baltic region, its business environment, and its connectivity with Europe and the rest of the world. The passenger terminal expansion project demonstrates that Latvia is continuing to make targeted investments in its infrastructure and is preparing for future growth. It is particularly important that the project is being adapted to realistic passenger traffic forecasts and Latvia’s actual needs, ensuring a responsible and well-considered investment in the country’s future,” said Andulis Židkovs, State Secretary, Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Latvia.
The terminal expansion will be delivered by the RIXLA consortium, whose bid was selected as the most economically advantageous in an international construction tender. The consortium consists of LNK Industries and Arčers. The international procurement process was conducted in accordance with the procurement procedures established by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. A total of 17 construction companies and consortia from nine countries applied for prequalification. Five candidates submitted technical proposals, four were invited to submit financial bids, and final financial bids were received from two participants. The bid submitted by RIXLA was ultimately selected as the most economically advantageous proposal.
The contract has been concluded under the FIDIC Yellow Book framework. The project is targeting a BREEAM Very Good sustainability certification rating.
Legal support for the project was provided by law firm Sorainen.
Construction will be carried out in four consecutive stages under a design-and-build delivery model. Works on site are scheduled to begin in the second half of September 2026, initially focusing on site preparation and the development of temporary infrastructure while the original design is being adapted to meet the Airport’s updated development needs. The second stage will include reconstruction of external infrastructure and utility networks, construction of new roads and public areas, and site landscaping. The third stage will involve construction of the terminal expansion itself, while the fourth stage will complete the permanent external infrastructure and remove temporary facilities.
The project is scheduled for completion within 42 months.
Throughout the construction period, RIX Riga Airport will continue operating at full capacity. However, passengers and visitors should expect temporary traffic and access restrictions within the Airport area. Information about any operational changes will be communicated in advance through the Airport’s website, social media channels and media announcements.
Source: riga-airport.com
